So Discouraged, I could cry

[lil_miss_understood]

I was doing pretty well, getting myself into a routine and then I got hit HARD by hypothyroid symptoms. Now I'm just feeling sorry for myself and still not totally "well" since I haven't started my higher dose of medication yet. My house is trashed and it seems like just the most simple of things gets me so behind even when I'm doing "well" and I seem to just be treading water, iykwim. I can't seem to get enough time to both keep the house decent AND declutter.
BLAH.

[zoebird]

first thing, focus on getting your health back.

until that rebalances, enlist help with the house and decluttering. make small goals and just keep to those--because too much and your energy will get zapped just like that. so keep it small and feel accomplished about the small things.

once you are well again, you'll have more energy and you can take on more stuff. That is, you can take on keeping the house clean and decluttering.

I do know that it is hard, and it is particularly hard when you do not feel well! so just go easy on yourself. it will get done; it will just take more time.

[mkksmom]

First, (((hugs!))). I totally understand. I seem to go in phases with my decluttering and routines but never quite get there, so whenever something happens (most recently baby stopped sleeping as well and I am exhausted), things seem to get out of hand. I think Flylady is probably the best bet in your situation right now. Maybe her idea of using a timer and just cleaning for 5, 10 or 15 minutes would help. Another tip I picked up from the mamas around here is focusing on one room rather than spreading out your efforts. You can see results more quickly this way. For me, the kitchen is first, then the family room... as long as the bathroom is wiped down, which never seems to be hard for me as it's a quick job. I spend most of my time in these 3 rooms, and they affect my mood the most.

but Zoebird is right, your health comes first.

[AbbieB]

I could have written your post!

I realized my thyroid must be off when I heard myself complaining to my mother that I felt like I was sinking in mud and I didn't know why. Sure enough, 2 weeks ago my blood work showed I needed an increase in my dosage.

I think I am going to add a house that goes more than 1 month without any serious cleaning effort (by me...thank goodness the kids and DH pitch in) to my list of red flags for when it's time for blood work.

I'm happy to report that in just two weeks I can feel my head beginning to clear. I hope you can find relief soon too. Thyroid issues can be so tricky.

[ChristyMarie]

Your health comes first!

I broke my toe 4 weeks ago. My house is trashed. All the projects on hold and I still have a Christmas Tree up. *sigh*

I'm using this time to think and plan what I'm going to do as soon as I can move again.

Take your time and don't rush your health. The mess will still be there to tackle.

[ArtsyMomma]

Hang in there mama! The dust bunnies will still be there when you are ready to tackle them! I have some thyroid issues myself, small goals help me feel like I accomplished something. I'm also a list maker. I'd make a big list with many little tasks then I can cross them off as I go.

[LessTraveledBy]

I so understand. I can tell if I am on the right dose of Thyroid (like Armour) from how tidy our house is. Before I found out I had hp'ism, I could hardly empty the dishwasher. Now, on good days, I actually enjoy cleaning.

So... Repeat: This is not your fault. Do the little you can and be gentle with yourself. You will take care of the rest when you feel better.

I spent years being angry with myself for not getting more done. Now I know better and take a rest when I need to.