I find it really hard to function in a messy house and then get overwhelmed by the mess and need DH's help to clean it up.

I have a theory about it though. When I feel like I am on top of everything, my house looks pretty good and I feel like I can stay on top of my house work. I get things done as they need to be done and feel in control. The mess in my house is like an outworking of my inner emotions - a physical symbol of how I am feeling. If I feel busy and out of control, my house tends to reflect that. It usually takes a day of very deliberate effort by both DH and I (one of us looking after the kids) to catch up with the housework and help me feel like I can manage again.

I hope that makes sense.