Shame or embarrassment over one’s living space[2] X Research source Making purchases to “stock up” or because they’re a bargain[3] X Research source Difficulty getting rid of items Clutter that creates unusable living space Anxiety about needing possessions “for the future”[4] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Uncertainty about how to organize things Withdrawal from friends and family
Most people who hoard are over 55, and hoarding disorder often runs in families. 25% of U. S. adults exhibit some hoarding symptoms, but only 2% meet the criteria for hoarding disorder. Hoarding is often associated with OCD, ADHD, and depression. [6] X Research source
Setting a boundary that they can’t store possessions at your house Swapping gift-giving for other ways of expressing affection Steering clear of shopping trips with the person Refusing to pay for a storage unit where they can store more things Talking openly and kindly about the issue rather than ignoring it
Listen to how they talk about their possessions and use the same terminology they use. Try to avoid judgemental words like “junk” and “trash. ” Ask questions rather than making statements about their life. For instance, “How do you feel when other people see your house?” rather than “No one should live like this. ” Remind them what you love about them. People with hoarding disorder often struggle with social isolation. [9] X Research source Always take a moment to pause and think before sharing whatever is on your mind. It’s important to consciously think about how to say something in a more rational and productive way.
“I’m worried about the stack of books blocking the door because I want you to have an easy way to get out if there’s a fire. Could we work together to sort through those?” “I noticed the spoiled food in the fridge, and I’m concerned about you getting sick. Could we clean it out together?” “I’m worried about a fire. Could we move the newspapers away from your stove?”
For instance, if there’s a stack of boxes blocking the kitchen counters, you could ask, “Wouldn’t you like to be able to use your kitchen?”
Offer to drive them to appointments or go along with them. Encourage them to use Clutter Image Ratings or Hoarder Icebreakers from Hoarding Disorders UK as a way to talk to their doctor or psychologist about their situation.
You can have the mental health professional present during the intervention to introduce them to the hoarder, or make the introduction afterward. Interventions are helpful when a hoarder doesn’t want help because it’s more difficult for a hoarder to minimize the problem when confronted with a group. Just keep in mind, a hoarder will need to fully commit to the treatment in order for it to be effective in the long run.
Light clutter No odors or animal waste No blocked entryways
One or more blocked exits Malfunctioning appliances Poor ventilation Evidence of poor housekeeping (dust, mold, and mildew)
Overflowing garbage cans Piles of clothing and objects Signs of insect and rodent infestation Expired food and dirty dishes
Blocked off exits, stairways, and hallways Active infestations Animal waste
An excessive amount of pets[23] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Rotting food Damage to the floors or walls as a result of excess weight from clutter
