What is
Hoarding and Hoarding Disorder?

Hoarding and Hoarding Disorder is a mental health issue that can impact individuals and those around them in different ways. Understanding and addressing it through therapy can lead to improved well-being and quality of life.

What Is It?

Hoarding is a mental health condition marked by persistent difficulty discarding possessions, regardless of their actual value. This behavior stems from a perceived need to save items, leading to overwhelming clutter that can severely disrupt living spaces and daily functioning.

Common Experiences

People who hoard often feel anxiety or distress at the thought of discarding items. They may accumulate newspapers, clothes, containers, or sentimental objects. Decision-making about possessions becomes extremely difficult, and the clutter frequently limits the use of rooms or entire homes.

How It Can Affect You

Hoarding can strain relationships, create health and safety hazards, and lead to social isolation. The clutter may attract pests, pose fire risks, or prevent basic activities like cooking or sleeping. Emotional distress and embarrassment often prevent individuals from seeking help or inviting others in.