Not many of us allow clutter to escalate to the point where it causes psychological symptoms. Still, we can all use a few de-cluttering suggestions now and then.

If clutter does build up, try to remove it one room or area of that room at a time. Taking on the entire house or office can feel overwhelming, and reduces the likelihood that you’ll finish the task.

• Separate items into one of three boxes: donations, things to keep, and uncertain.

• First, go through your uncertain box, and if you haven’t used something in the past year, move it to the donation box. Get your donation items out of the house ASAP.

• When you bring mail, paperwork, or packages into the house, sort and put them away immediately.

• Seldom-used or seasonal items such as ski clothes or swimsuits should be kept in less-trafficked places such as the attic or a spare bedroom closet.

• Train yourself to spend 5 to 10 minutes each day sorting through clutter that has gathered. Organizing and tossing a bit each day helps you avoid the need for organization marathons.

None of us can entirely remove all the clutter from our lives, but we can reserve smaller places for it. Whether it’s a classic “junk drawer” in the kitchen or a box in the basement, make sure it’s out of sight and doesn’t cause you undue anxiety.

Make an effort to sift through the isolated clutter at regular intervals and get rid of things, especially if it is beginning to pile up.