Research consistently shows that clutter can negatively impact an individual's health by increasing stress and anxiety, reducing focus and productivity, and contributing to mental health issues like depression or mood disorders.  Additionally, clutter can pose physical dangers in the home, increasing the risk of accidents like tripping and can exacerbate allergies and other respiratory issues due to dust accumulation.  The effects extend beyond individual health—clutter can also lead to social isolation, strained relationships, and financial strain.

To address this widespread issue, the Whitley County Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) Extension Agent offered a four-part class series, Take Back Your Space, during the month of February 2025.  Prior to the course, the FCS Agent collaborated with local organizations—including Whitley County Schools, Knox-Whitley Humane Association, Anchored Ministries, and Independence House—to identify needs within the community. These needs included:

• Bedding for animals
• Prom dresses for the Prom Closet
• Clothing
• Household appliances
• Health and beauty items

Collection bins for these items were placed in the lobby of the Whitley County Extension Office, providing participants with a direct way to give back as they decluttered their own homes.

Nineteen adult individuals engaged in weekly classes focused on the effect that clutter has on our mental, physical, and financial health, the reasons for clutter, the barriers to reducing clutter, and the benefits of reducing clutter.  Over the four weeks, attendees were provided with a variety of tips and techniques to overcome the barriers to reducing clutter while focusing on different areas of their environment.  Class participants were challenged to identify items in their home that they didn’t need but were needed by our community partners.  27 large containers of items were collected during the class by class participants and distributed to the identified community partners.

At the conclusion of the class series, a written survey revealed powerful outcomes:

• 100% of participants reported understanding the benefits of decluttering.
• 100% had already applied what they learned to make changes in their homes.
• 100% felt the program improved their life, mental health, and overall well-being.
• 100% expressed commitment to continue their decluttering journey.

Attendees shared comments about the positive changes they experienced and what would inspire others to take the first step in decluttering.  Those comments included:

• "Do the best you can even though you have physical problems. Stop self-judging yourself!"
• "Look at the difference this has made in my life!"
• "It’s time to simplify our lives—more stuff can actually be a burden."
• "Set a timer for 10 minutes and see how much you can accomplish!"
• "Start small. It gets you going on a project you’ve been avoiding for months."
• "You can do it! Even 15 minutes can make a difference."
• "Take back control of your life."
• "Let go! Get rid of junk you no longer need."

The overwhelming enthusiasm and success of the program led participants to request a refresher course to help sustain their momentum and continue their path toward a clutter-free, healthier life.