When I saw the title of this thread I sort of expected Rachel would become a part of it as the two of us have discussed this many times. I, too, came from a home where my mom had a love of knick knacks and was very disorganized and then it went on to become a house of clutter after my dad passed away. She always had a problem with organizing but never got to second base because the first step in organizing is to create space by throwing out things that aren't used/needed any more. I watched her many times search for things because she had no idea where to look and would then have to go out and purchase the item over again. I swore I would never live like that and, if you ask my hubby, I have probably allowed the pendulum to swing too far the other way.

The topic of cluttering has come up recently on several TV shows. Some have alluded to the fact that it is a type of obsessive compulsive disorder and responds to medication. If so, how I wish I would have known that years ago as my mom could have certainly benefitted. She hesitated to invite people over because her house was, as she'd say, "not straight."

I commend you for acknowledging the problem. As Rachel said, that is Step One. You have already overcome a bigger demon in your life with your victory over alcohol so I know you will win over this as well.

There is a healthy eating thread which has recently begun and will be called *Fitness Fridays* starting next week. The advice there is amazing and the group of ladies involved are, I am sure, motivating many people who lurk but never post. Perhaps this thread will too.

Gosh, there are so many things that can hinder a happy healthy lifestyle. Smoking is another. My hubby has been smoking and talking about quitting for years. *sigh* Breaking free of habits and self-defeating lifestyles is hard but I think a forum (even inside PT) can be invaluable. Sorry to ramble and get off topic a little.

Edit: Catty1, I just re-read your initial post and am now thinking that you are referring to *mental disorganization.* If so I am sorry I took your thread in a different direction.