Our house, literally and figuratively, should be our place of peace and solace. It’s the one constant that we have some control over. Keep my house clean and rid of clutter, and I have more space to become. I don’t believe we mean the literal roof over our heads, but our mind and soul.
In the literal sense, I go through moments where I want to purge physical objects from my space. Knick-knacks? They have a spot. Old clothing and books I don’t use? They have a spot or get donated. Freeing up my space in the real-life sense gives me a clearer mind.

In the figurative sense, I also want to purge my “house.” Acquaintances or friends that aren’t supportive to my process? Set some boundaries. Thoughts that impede on my ability to focus? Write them down, and throw them away, or find a sounding board. Walk away. Reset your environment. Find something else that works better.

Kristen Ellis

Kristen has worked in the mental health field since 2013, with a focus on crisis work, substance use services, and bringing a voice to lived experience. Her ambition is to change the way mental health care and recovery is seen and achieved, so to redefine what it means to defeat adversity.