Organized or Overwhelmed
The Power of Organization in Managing Anxiety, Depression, and ADHD
As someone who navigates life with anxiety, depression, and ADHD, I’ve come to realize that organization is not just a tool—it’s a lifeline. Without it, my brain spirals into overdrive, and the chaos in my mind takes over. Often, my thoughts skew negative, overwhelming me and making even the simplest tasks feel insurmountable. Being organized gives me a sense of control, reduces uncertainty, and quiets the storm inside my head.
Organization as a Buffer Against Overwhelm
When you’re dealing with anxiety or ADHD, uncertainty can feel like the enemy. For me, not knowing the plan—or worse, feeling unprepared—invites a torrent of "what-ifs" that hijack my focus and energy. I’ve learned that being organized allows me to meet life’s demands with more confidence. I know that when I plan ahead, I’m not just creating a to-do list; I’m creating a safety net for my mental health.
Take grocery shopping, for example. I always go to the same store because I know its layout. I write my grocery list in the order of the aisles, so I can move through the store systematically. This approach minimizes decision-making and saves me from feeling flustered or disoriented. It might seem like a small thing, but for me, it makes all the difference.
Preparation Brings Peace of Mind
The same principle applies to larger activities, like attending a concert. For many, going to a concert is about excitement and spontaneity. For me, it’s about preparation. I make sure I know where my seat is located, as well as the nearest exits and bathrooms, before I even get to the venue. Knowing these details helps me feel grounded and reassures me that I have options if my anxiety flares up.
Planning ahead might sound tedious or unnecessary to some, but for me, it’s a form of self-care. It allows me to reduce the unexpected variables that might trigger anxiety. When I feel more in control of my surroundings, I can actually enjoy the experience instead of being consumed by worry.
The Mental Toll of Overthinking
Despite my best efforts to stay organized, even small tasks can take a lot out of me. Overthinking is a constant companion, whispering worst-case scenarios and poking holes in my plans. Something as straightforward as scheduling a doctor’s appointment or deciding what to wear can leave me drained. It’s frustrating, but I’ve learned to acknowledge this challenge without letting it define me.
To conserve energy, I’ve adopted strategies that streamline my decision-making. For instance, I set reminders for recurring tasks, so I don’t have to remember everything. I also batch similar activities together—like meal planning and prepping—to make the process more efficient. These small adjustments help me reclaim energy that might otherwise be lost to overthinking.
A Gentle Reminder to Myself (and You)
If you’re reading this and feeling like you’re alone in your struggles, I want you to know you’re not. Managing anxiety, depression, and ADHD isn’t easy, but it’s not impossible either. Embracing organization as a tool for navigating life’s challenges has been transformative for me. It doesn’t mean my mental health issues disappear, but it does mean I can face them with a little more strength and clarity.
Remember: It’s okay to need structure. It’s okay to create routines and systems that make sense to you, even if they seem overly meticulous to others. What matters is that they help you feel safe and supported. Life is hard enough without the added pressure of trying to navigate it chaotically. Give yourself the grace to prioritize what you need, even if it looks different from what others might do.
In the end, being organized is my way of showing up for myself. It’s not about perfection; it’s about creating a life where I can feel a little more at ease. And isn’t that something we all deserve?
xo B
