DEAR HARRIETTE: I have always been messy, but things have gotten a lot worse recently. I have been working overtime to try to make up for the shortfall during COVID-19, but I have also been working from home. I look around, and I am horrified by the clutter that has built up in my place. I don’t invite anybody to come over because I am ashamed of my living conditions. Recently, a friend from work informed me that she is moving into my building. She says she can’t wait for us to hang out. I am in a panic. I like her, but I can’t let her see my home. What should I do? -- Hoarder
DEAR HOARDER: Take a deep breath and address one thing at a time. You know you need help getting your house in order. Since you have not been successful yet in decluttering and organizing your space, you must seek professional help to turn your home around. For starters, there is a 12-step organization that can help you face your addiction to stuff. Contact Clutters Anonymous (recovery.org/support-groups/clutters-anonymous) to help you.
You can also engage a professional cleaning service to come in and work with you to unload the clutter in your home. There are plenty of businesses that can help. This won’t be easy, as you seem to have an emotional attachment to your belongings, but if you keep the big picture in mind, you may be able to take control over your home. For a nationwide directory of hoarding supporters, call Hoarding Cleanup: 800-462-7337.
As far as your friend goes, don’t invite her over until you are ready. Period.