In this episode, Valerie and JM get honest about the emotional layers that make decluttering feel overwhelming—even when your home looks “clean.” They unpack the neuroscience of why clutter is so triggering, share their personal story of burnout, and challenge the polished perfection of most organizing content. With insights on trauma, identity, and the reality of ongoing healing, this episode reframes decluttering as a journey of emotional clarity—not just tidy spaces.

IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:

• Why decluttering feels emotionally exhausting – Understand the brain’s response to unresolved clutter.
  
• How trauma and identity are tied to clutter – Learn why letting go is more than just organizing.
  
• The truth behind “perfect” decluttering videos – Discover why real transformation looks messy.
  
• Why decluttering is ongoing work – See it as a healing process, not a one-time fix.

LINKS AND RESOURCES WITH THIS EPISODE:

• "Put That Stuff Down" and its sequel (book) - A recommended read exploring the complex relationship between trauma, PTSD, and clutter. It offers personal stories, psychological insights, and practical advice. Click here to learn more: https://up.dowellht.com/bestseller-clutter-and-trauma

• Join the thousands of people using the post-trauma secrets and decluttering by starting here: https://dowellht.com/freeyourself

Thanks so much for joining us today. Want to subscribe to Post-Trauma Secrets and Decluttering? Have some feedback you’d like to share? Connect with us on iTunes and leave us a review! iTunes not your thing? Find us on Spotify or Stitcher

Support the show