4,7 of 5 in 5000+ reviews
Thousands of clients trust Lavendla Therapy for delivering exceptional service and support.
Do you struggle to let go of things? Does it cause distress and impact your daily life? If so, you may be experiencing collector's syndrome. Here, we will explain the issue and how you can seek help.
What is collector’s syndrome?
In collector’s syndrome, people have considerable difficulty getting rid of things, partly because they feel uncomfortable and think they need to keep them. They may collect different things, some of which may have objective value, but others may seem less valuable to an outsider. The syndrome is similar to obsessive-compulsive disorder, where you have different types of compulsive behaviours.
Collector’s syndrome cause
Collector syndrome usually develops early in life, and studies have shown that the problems often develop in childhood. The problem is distressing and can get worse with age, with around 6% of the population over the age of seventy having it. Both genetic and environmental factors contribute to the development of the syndrome. Many people with the problem have been found to have experienced trauma, but it is not possible to say that trauma is the direct cause of the syndrome; many factors are involved.
What set our therapist apart was her genuine empathy and personal insight. Not only did she possess a deep understanding of neurodiversity, but she also shared personal experiences that resonated with us, creating an instant connection and fostering a sense of trust!
Benedetta Osarenk
Our counsellors
Click here to view all psychologists, therapists, and coaches.
Collector Syndrome symptoms
Collector’s Syndrome is a separate diagnosis in the DSM-5 diagnostic manual, but the symptoms are similar to Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. A diagnosis can be made only if the behaviour causes excellent suffering and affects how you function in everyday life. The home is often messy and cluttered, making it difficult to do everyday things like using the bathroom and cooking. They may collect things by looking for free stuff, buying or stealing. They may not always be aware of their behaviour, and others around them may point it out. However, others around the person can also make recovery more difficult by perpetuating the problems. Collector’s Syndrome can lead to feelings of shame and stigma, so it is essential to get the right help. If diagnosed, these symptoms can be reviewed:
- Presence of extreme collecting
- Degree of insight
If you have hoarding syndrome, you often also have depression, anxiety and ADHD. It is also common in OCD, Prader-Willi syndrome and autism spectrum disorder. It is possible to get treatment for these problems as well.
Collector’s Syndrome treatment
So, what can you do if you have Collector’s Syndrome? Few studies have been conducted on children and adolescents, so the most helpful treatment is unknown. Collector’s Syndrome has different levels, with mild, moderate, and severe symptoms, and treatment is adapted accordingly.
CBT treatment for hoarder syndrome usually involves 16-26 sessions and can be given individually or in groups. It includes techniques for working on motivation and thoughts and feelings related to things you have. It also provides training skills to organize, sort, and decide what to do with your accumulated things. People can bring items to the clinic, or the practitioner can make a home visit. There are few studies on drug treatment, so whether it helps with hoarding syndrome is unclear.
Seeking help can change your life
Collector’s Syndrome is not something you need to deal with alone. Talking to a psychotherapist or psychologist can help you understand your condition better and offer practical ways to move forward. You are not alone, and it is okay to ask for help. Our website has qualified therapists and psychologists who are happy to help you avoid compulsive behaviours.
Book a meeting
Fill in the form, choose a counsellor, and proceed to payment.
Your next step
If you or someone you know is struggling with collector’s syndrome, it’s a good idea to talk to a professional therapist or psychologist. We assure you that all therapists and psychologists on our platform are qualified, and your conversation is always confidential. Don’t be afraid to take the first step.
Living with Collector’s Syndrome can be difficult, but help is available. You can significantly improve your quality of life with the right support and tools. We are here to support you if you are ready to take the next step. Book your first session today and start your journey towards a better future.
Why Lavendla?
Choose your own counsellor
Browse and select a counsellor based on reviews, area of focus, and education, ensuring you find the perfect match.
45, 60 or 90 min sessions
Choose a 45, 60, or 90-minute session, or a package, providing flexibility and control over the duration and intensity.
12 FAQs about Collector’s Syndrome
What is Collector’s Syndrome?
Collector’s syndrome means that people have considerable difficulty getting rid of things, partly because they feel uncomfortable and believe they need to keep them. People may collect different things, some of which may have objective value, but others may seem less valuable to an outsider.
How is Collector’s Syndrome diagnosed?
A psychologist or psychiatrist usually diagnoses hoarding syndrome through various tests and assessments. This may include questionnaires and clinical interviews.
Is Collector’s Syndrome hereditary?
Research shows that Collector’s Syndrome may have a genetic component, but it is not the only factor. Environment and upbringing also play a role.
What are the symptoms of Collector’s Syndrome?
Symptoms often include a messy and cluttered home and difficulty doing everyday things like using the bathroom and cooking. People with this disorder may acquire things by seeking out free stuff, buying, or stealing. They also suffer from the problem but may have difficulty with insight.
How is Collectors Syndrome treated?
Treatment often involves Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).
Is there a cure for Collector’s Syndrome?
There is treatment for Collector’s Syndrome that can be helpful for many people, although it may not help everyone.
Can children get Collector’s Syndrom?
It has been found that people with Collector’s Syndrome have often had symptoms since childhood. It is essential to seek professional help as soon as possible for the best possible treatment outcome.
How common is Collector’s Syndrome?
Collector’s Syndrome increases with age, and for people over 70 years old, about 6% of the population has the syndrome.
Does it affect everyday life?
Yes, in severe cases, Collectors Syndrome can lead to disability with difficulties in hygiene and cooking. However, it is possible to return to normal function with proper treatment.
How is Collector’s Syndrome different from regular habits?
Unlike regular habits and the saving of memorabilia, hoarder syndrome involves a large number of items that cause distress and affect function.
Can you have other problems at the same time as having collector’s syndrome?
It is also expected to have other psychological conditions such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, OCD and other problems. It is essential to get an assessment by a professional to get the proper treatment.
How do I get help with my Collector’s Syndrome?
At Lavendla, we have experienced psychologists and therapists who work with CBT and can help you feel better if you have mild symptoms.
What does treatment for collector’s syndrome involve?
Seeking help is a big step towards better health; deciding to control how you feel is a positive thing. Here is an overview of the steps usually involved in CBT treatment.
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 behaviours. 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.
It can define which areas of your life are most affected by 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 treatment phase, which involves exercises to give you tools to overcome and work through the problem you are suffering from. You often work with motivation to get rid of things, for example and practice this with the therapist. CBT also works with thoughts and feelings about the problem behaviour.
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 ends, it is time to reflect on the progress. You will also receive a maintenance plan for using the tools and strategies you have learned in the future. It is also essential 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 psychologists or therapists.
Read more
