Hoarding

Transcript from video

Hoarding is different from collecting. People who have collections, such as models or memorabilia, search out specific items. They usually organize and display their collections. Even if their collections are huge they generally aren’t cluttered, or left in disorganised piles. People can feel proud to show their collections. Hoarders however accumulate items haphazardly and don’t really organise them. They can also feel intense shame and try to hide how they live from others. In many cases the major clutter has developed by the time it reaches the attention of others.

It is a psychological disorder recognised by DSM 5 and is characterized by persistent difficulty in discarding or parting with possessions, regardless of their actual use or value. Although hoarding is seen as a distinct disorder, it often coexists with other mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It shares some features with these conditions, and individuals with hoarding disorder may experience high levels of anxiety and distress, which contribute to their hoarding behaviours.

The Hoarding can range from mild to severe. In some cases, hoarding may not have much impact on someone’s life, while in other cases it seriously affect their daily functioning. It can lead to the accumulation of items to the point where, in extreme cases, living spaces become cluttered and unusable. For instance cramped living conditions with only narrow pathways winding through stacks of clutter. They may not be able to use some areas for their intended purpose. For example, they might not be able to cook in the kitchen. When there's no more room inside the home, the clutter may spread to other storage areas like the garage, yard, even the car.

Common Symptoms of hoarding disorder can include keeping too many items that you may not have no real need for and don't have space for. There can be a fear of wasting anything, feeling a need to save items for fear of future value or need, and being upset by the thought of getting rid of them.

Dr. David Tolin, a leading researcher in the field, points out that hoarding often starts in childhood or adolescence but becomes more severe in adulthood. The behaviours can start in various ways and often develops over time. Some common triggers include experiencing a significant loss or trauma. For some, hoarding becomes a coping mechanism to deal with grief or stress. Hoarders can form strong emotional bonds with their possessions, believing that these items are essential for their happiness or safety. The fear of losing something could trigger a fear of losing a connection.

There is some evidence to suggest that hoarding can run in families, which indicates a possible genetic component or learned behaviour, or both. Growing up in a cluttered or hoarded environment can increase the risk as people may learn hoarding behaviours from their family members or become accustomed to living in such conditions. Some people with hoarding disorder may have perfectionistic tendencies and fear making mistakes. They may accumulate items because they worry about discarding something important.

But the impact of hoarding extends far beyond just a cluttered home. It can have severe, sometimes debilitating consequences on various aspects of life. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology found that people with hoarding disorder reported significantly lower quality of life compared to the general population. Living in cluttered environments can pose serious health risks, including falls, fires, and unsanitary conditions that attract pests. It can also strain existing relationships with family and friends. Loved ones may feel frustrated or helpless, leading to conflicts and emotional distance.

Living in cluttered environments can pose serious health risks, including falls, fire hazards, a build up of food or trash, unsanitary conditions that attract pests.

It can exacerbate feelings of anxiety, depression, and shame. The nature of their environment can lead to social isolation. Hoarders can fear others finding out how they live so keep social interactions to a minimum, away from their home.

The continuous acquisition of items can lead to financial problems, including debt, or legal issues such as eviction. It might lead to employment problems such as poor performance.

Other factors of hoarding can include trouble making decisions and problems with attention, organization and problem-solving. An unfortunate fact can be that items that really are important may actually get lost in the clutter.

Now It's important to note that hoarding disorder is a complex mental health condition, and not all individuals who exhibit hoarding behaviours will meet the criteria for a formal diagnosis as set out in the DSM 5. The causes of the disorder can vary from person to person, and the development of the disorder is likely influenced by a combination of factors.

Overcoming hoarding is challenging but possible with the right strategies and support. Some ideas to help include gradual decluttering. Instead of attempting to clear out everything at once, a gradual approach can be more sustainable. Setting small, achievable goals can lead to long-term success. Pick one corner of the room, one corner of the work top. A little piece at a time, pay attention and monitor your progress.

Secondly, Counselling and psychotherapy can be an effective treatment for hoarding. It helps people understand the underlying causes of their behaviour and develop healthier habits. It can also help making that one little piece at a time easier.

Joining a support group can provide a sense of community and understanding. Sharing experiences with others facing similar challenges can be incredibly therapeutic. It can be especially helpful when people share ideas that help with each other.

In conclusion, Hoarding is a complex disorder with deep psychological roots and far-reaching effects. However, with the right support and treatment, individuals can reclaim their spaces and improve their quality of life.

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