Why does Just In Time Solutions subscribe to the Institute for Challenging
Disorganization (ICD)? Many people are surprised to learn that professional
organizing has a strong educational foundation. While the organizing
industry itself is unregulated—meaning anyone can call themselves a
professional organizer—there are organizations that establish education
standards and offer certification. One of the most respected is the Institute for
Challenging Disorganization (ICD).
The ICD’s mission is to provide education, research, and strategies to benefit
people affected by chronic disorganization, with a vision of being the premier
resource in this field. For professional organizers, like ourselves, who work
with clients whose struggles go beyond “too much stuff,” ICD resources offer
critical insight. Training in this area goes far deeper than bins and labels—it
prepares organizers to approach clients with empathy, to recognize (*but not
diagnose) when mental health or cognitive challenges are influencing clutter,
and to offer tailored strategies that support long-term success.
The link between clutter and mental health is well established. For some
individuals, disorganization stems directly from a diagnosed mental illness,
brain injury, or aging. For others, it may appear to be “just” a lack of time,
space, or support. Often, the two are interconnected. Regardless of the cause,
clutter can become overwhelming and affect daily functioning, self-esteem,
and overall well-being. Research consistently shows that cluttered
environments can heighten stress, increase anxiety, and even exacerbate
existing health conditions.
The process of organizing is not about achieving perfection; it’s about
creating a supportive environment where people can thrive. For example, one
client with a basement full of inherited belongings didn’t realize how heavy
the emotional burden was until the space was cleared. Only then did they feel
the release of stress that clutter had imposed.
Organizing also requires a realistic, step-by-step approach. Just as no one
runs a marathon on their first day of training, no one transforms a cluttered
home overnight. Progress is built through small, sustainable changes: letting
go of items that no longer serve a purpose, creating simple systems that
reflect a person’s natural thinking style, and building new habits over time.
Importantly, letting go is often the hardest part, as it may stir up feelings of
guilt, grief, or shame. Our training through ICD allows us to understand these
emotional layers and become skilled at guiding our clients through them
with compassion.
Ultimately, clearing physical clutter often leads to clearing mental clutter. A
more organized home can reduce stress, restore a sense of control, and
provide renewed energy for life. By drawing on the research and training
provided by the ICD, we are better equipped to support not only our clients’
spaces, but also their overall mental health.
Resources:
https://www.challengingdisorganization.org/
https://form.jotform.com/50614991787165
