I think that most people would agree (if they put their mind to it) that they would prefer to live in a clean house than a dirty one. I'm not talking polishing every day, or washing up every mug or glass as soon as it's been used I'm talking about a general level of cleanliness.

While depression is a clinical illness (which I am affected by) I am certain that the state of my house does have some impact upon my mood. University was a big culture shock for me - previously I had been used to my mum cleaning, cooking, and doing my washing. In a way I suppose this was lazy, but then I was never asked to do any housework, So, really I took having a clean house for granted. In the second year at University I was living in a huge house with 6 other people, and the house got pretty dirty pretty quickly. The house was quite bad to start with there was damp, mushrooms growing in the toilet, and slugs in the living room.

In order to deal with the squalor I drank even more than usual, and the house got worse and worse. No one ever did cleaning, the bins were overflowing you get the idea? When I finally came to do the washing up one day I saw how much there actually was and just broke down in tears there was so much, and it was covered in mould. Basically, living in filth did not help my depression.

I am pleased to say that I have a reasonably clean house now with my husband. We don't have much time due to being tired after work, but we particularly make an effort when we have guests. It gives me pleasure when people comment on how nice our house is.

The other thing to remember is that cleaning can be extremely satisfying, it can even be fun if you listen to music while you're doing it. Vigorous cleaning (especially the big spring clean) can be really energetic and counts as exercise and exercise is proven to help in mild to moderate depression as it releases endorphins.

I do think that people with mental health problems do need to be careful though. It can be easy to let things get on top of you and worry that there's so much to do. Don't do everything at once you don't need to polish, vacuum and clean the bath all in one go! It is also important not to become obsessive about cleanliness a bit of dirt never hurt anyone, and is actually good for the immune system. Some people with depressive illnesses might really appreciate a little bit of help with cleaning, especially when they are feeling really low. A clean house and some fresh flowers can really boost someone's mood it's the little things that really help.

Our house is homely and has a fair bit of clutter I like that, it feels lived in and comfortable. If we have friends round and someone spills red wine I won't worry about it I will simply clean it up, and not mind if it leaves a little stain!

At the end of the day try and keep your house looking nice, and remember that cleaning can be fun if not done to excess! I am of course under no illusions - depression is an illness which needs medical attention.....but every little bit helps contribute towards health and happiness.

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