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Do you find it difficult to get rid of material items to the point that it interferes with your living situation and social life? If so, you can get help for hoarding disorder. In this article, we explain what hoarding is and how you can get help.
What is hoarding?
Hoarding is when people have considerable difficulty getting rid of things due to their perceived emotional value. Even when hoarding crowds their living situation and impacts social relationships, they are unable to change their behaviors. Hoarding disorder is similar to obsessive-compulsive disorder, which is marked by the presence of unrelenting compulsive behaviors.
Causes of hoarding
Hoarding usually develops early in life. The problem is distressing and can get worse with age, with anywhere from 3-6% of the adult population having it. Both genetic and environmental factors contribute to the development of hoarding. Many people with the problem have been found to have experienced trauma, but many factors are involved.
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Hoarding disorder symptoms
Hoarding disorder is a separate diagnosis in the DSM-5 diagnostic manual grouped with obsessive-compulsive and related disorders. A diagnosis requires that getting ride of items causes great suffering, results in excessive acquisition of items, and causes significant impairment.
A hoarder’s home is often messy and cluttered, which can make it difficult to do everyday things like using the bathroom and cooking. They may collect things by looking for free items, buying or stealing. They may not always be aware of their behavior and it may be pointed out by others around them. Hoarding can lead to feelings of shame so it is important to look for a compassionate, sensitive support system.
If you have a hoarding disorder, you often also have depression, anxiety and/or ADHD. Hoarding is also common alongside OCD, Prader-Willi syndrome and autism spectrum disorder. It is possible to get treatment for these problems as well.
Hoarding disorder treatment
So what can you do if you have a hoarding disorder? Treatment with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for hoarding disorder is usually between 16-26 sessions and can be given individually or in groups. The treatment includes techniques to work on motivation and thoughts and feelings related to things you have. It also includes training skills to organize, sort and make decisions about what to do with the things you have accumulated. People can bring items to the clinic or the practitioner can make a home visit. There are few studies on medication treatment, so it is unclear whether it helps with hoarding syndrome.
Seeking help can change your life
Hoarding disorder is not something you need to manage on your own. Talking to a licensed psychotherapist or psychologist can not only help you understand your condition better but also offer effective ways to move forward. You are not alone! On our website, we have qualified therapists and psychologists who are happy to help you get out of compulsive behaviors.
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Your next step
If you or someone you know is struggling with hoarding behaviors, it’s a wise idea to talk to a professional therapist or psychologist. All of our therapists and psychologists are qualified and your conversation is always confidential. Don’t be afraid to take the first step.
Living with a hoarding disorder can be a daily struggle but fortunately there is help available. With the right support and tools, you can significantly improve your quality of life. If you are ready to take the plunge, we’re here to support you. Book your first session today and start your journey towards a better future.
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12 frequently asked questions about hoarding disorder
What is hoarding disorder?
Hoarding is when people have considerable difficulty getting rid of things due to their perceived emotional value. Even when hoarding crowds their living situation and impacts social relationships, they are unable to change their behaviors.
How is hoarding disorder diagnosed?
A diagnosis of hoarding syndrome is usually made by a licensed psychologist or psychiatrist through various tests and assessments. This may include questionnaires and clinical interviews.
Is hoarding disorder hereditary?
Research shows that hoarding disorder may have a genetic component but it is not the only factor. Environment, personality traits, and social status also play a role.
What are the symptoms of hoarding disorder?
Hoarding disorder is a separate diagnosis in the DSM-5 diagnostic manual grouped with obsessive-compulsive and related disorders. A diagnosis requires that getting ride of items causes great suffering, results in excessive acquisition of items, and causes significant impairment.
How is hoarding disorder treated?
Treatment often involves cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Is there a cure for hoarding disorder?
There is treatment for hoarding disorder that can make symptoms much better depending on the severity of the condition.
Can children get a hoarding disorder?
It has been found that people with hoarding disorders have often had symptoms since childhood. It is important to seek professional help as soon as possible for the best possible treatment outcome.
How common is hoarding disorder?
Between 3-6% of the adult population in America has hoarding disorder.
Does it affect everyday life?
Yes, in severe cases hoarding disorder can lead to severe difficulties with hygiene and other daily tasks. However, it is possible to return to normal function with proper treatment.
How is hoarding disorder different from regular habits?
Unlike regular habits of saving memorabilia and items of emotional value, hoarding disorder involves an excessive acquisition of items to the point that it causes distress and impacts functioning.
Can you have other mental health problems at the same time as having hoarding disorder?
It is also common to have other psychological conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, and other diagnosis along with hoarding disorder. It is important to get an assessment by a professional in order to get the right treatment.
How do I get help with my hoarding disorder?
At Lavendla, we have experienced psychologists and therapists who provide CBT and can help you feel better. Go ahead and browse their online profiles, book a consultation, and get started!
What does treatment for hoarding disorder involve?
It is important to consult with a healthcare provider to establish a diagnosis and discuss the most appropriate treatment for you. Below are common components of CBT:
Step 1: An initial assessment session
The first meeting with your psychologist or therapist is an assessment to review your mental and physical health. You may be asked questions about your life situation, feelings, thoughts and behaviors. You may also be asked to complete assessment forms.
Step 2: Goal setting
This is where you and your therapist set concrete goals for the therapy, both short and long term. Goals can define which areas of your life most affect your well being and how you would like to change them.
Step 4: Treatment with different techniques and tools
This is the start of the actual treatment phase, which involves exercises aimed at giving you tools to overcome and work through the problem you are suffering from. You often work with motivation to get rid of items, for example, and practice this with the therapist. CBT also works with thoughts and feelings about the problem behavior.
Step 5: Monitoring and evaluation
Treatment is monitored regularly to see how well the therapy is working. If necessary, the treatment plan can be adjusted or renewed.
Step 6: Ending and looking ahead
As the therapy comes to an end, it is time to reflect on the progress made. You will also receive a maintenance plan for how to use the tools and strategies you have learned in the future. It is also important to monitor the results over time.
If you or someone close to you is looking for professional help, don’t hesitate to book a session with one of our licensed psychologists or therapists.
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