When we feel stressed, it is natural to want to take action and do something that makes us feel in control and productive. Cleaning can provide a great opportunity to channel a person’s stress in a productive way and can give a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.
Cleaning, organizing and tidying can help create a sense of calm, continuity and order which can relieve stress and increase positive emotions such as safety and security. Additionally, it is known that physical activity can help with stress, and the pushing and pulling associated with cleaning can help release energy and offer a release.
Finally, getting lost in the task of cleaning can be a form of mindfulness, allowing an individual to be in the present moment and take a break from worrying thoughts.
Is cleaning a coping mechanism for anxiety?
Cleaning can be a way of coping with anxiety, but it is not an adequate long-term solution. Often, when people feel anxious, they may take comfort in directing their energy into an activity that has a tangible outcome.
For some, this can be cleaning or tidying their home. The satisfaction of completing these tasks can provide a sense of control, which can be calming for people who are feeling overwhelmed.
However, this approach is rarely effective over the long-term. While it can provide a distraction from anxious thoughts in the short-term, it does not actually address the underlying causes of the anxiety.
Therefore, it does not provide a true solution and will not lead to sustained relief. It is important to find healthy ways to cope with anxiety. Talking to a professional, exercising, meditating, and engaging in other activities can help manage anxiety in the long run.
How can I stop stress cleaning?
Stress cleaning is a common reaction to overwhelming emotions or as a way of avoiding difficult life circumstances, but it can often be more harmful than helpful. It can interfere with regular life tasks and be a sign of an underlying issue such as anxiety or depression.
Here are some tips for stopping and managing stress cleaning.
1. Identify what is causing your stress. Once you figure out what the source of your stress is, take a few moments to examine your feelings instead of distracting yourself with cleaning. Taking a few deep breaths and focusing on the feeling can help.
2. Make time for leisure activities. Schedule time for leisure activities such as exercise, reading, or spending time with friends and family. This gives you an outlet and a way to let go of stress and anxiety.
3. Make time for self-care. Schedule activities that you enjoy such as yoga or a hot bath. Taking time to connect with yourself and focus on self-care will reduce your stress levels and give you the energy to manage your life.
4. Talk about your stress. Talking to a therapist or a friend about what is causing your stress can provide a sense of relief. Learning how to express your emotions in a healthy way can help alleviate stress and reduce the urge to clean as a way of coping.
5. Reach out to supportive people. Surround yourself with supportive family and friends who can remind you that it’s okay to take a break and take care of yourself. Lean on them for emotional and practical support.
By making time for self-reflection and self-care, talking to friends and family, and engaging in leisure activities, you can better manage your stress and reduce the urge to stress clean.