Hi Shannon!
Definitely cone over to the chat thread. Just jump in, it's long, we don't expect you to catch up.

We will cheer for you and dan help you find a place to start. You already made the first steps! You see a problem and want it to change. That is a big deal.

Hello Shannon

Why don't you join us in "The Daily Chat" where we give encouragement and advice to each other.
We would love to have you.

So many people like you who have had a great loss or a major health issue find themselves waking up one day to find they are drowning in excess treasures.
(((HUG)))

Second suggestion is that you promise not to buy anything that's not absolutely necessary like food, TP and such.
And don't pick up or accept any "Freebies" from anywhere.

First step in decluttering is to stop the flow of incoming items.

Could you promise us to do this for one month?
We know it's hard but the rewards are great.

When you feel the urge/need to shop we suggest you shop at home.
Go through some things you haven't looked at in a while.
You will be surprised just what all you forgot you had.

50 is a good age to do this because as we grow older the harder it is to do things.
Having a tidier home makes it easier to live day to day and it is safer too.

Hope to "see" you around the message board. :)

I need help. I need advice. I need encouragement.
I am trying very hard. I can't think of anything else but cleaning my life. It is exhausting. I had breast cancer 11 years ago. I was 38. My husband passed away 7 years ago from heart disease at 45. My "collecting" has become full-time hoarding ever since. I will be 50 soon. I am desperate to change. Any and all suggestions will be appreciated. I am so grateful for this board. I can't thank you enough.