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Hoarding affects approximately 4% of the US population. While it has been categorized as a subtype of obsessive compulsive personality disorder (OCPD), research has uncovered many differences. Learn about the unique features associated with hoarders and the differences between hoarding and OCD.

Hoarding Disorder

Thank you for this informative article ...

Mild OCD runs in one branch of my family. Also, mild hoarding.

I just dealt with my elderly aunt and her hoarding. It was terribly trying but now that I understand this condition better, I don't get so emotionally drawn into the problem. What a relief.

Thanks Susan!

Lori,
It sounds like you have a lot of first hand experience with this disorder. I am sorry about your aunt.

Did you know....

Family or friends sometimes think that clearing out the hoarders possessions while the hoarder is away from the home will help solve the problem. This is not so. The compulsive hoarder will simply re-hoard often within a few months.

In addition, the hoarder returns and will most likely feel deeply traumatized, angry and betrayed.

I deal with hoarders and the important thing is that they make the decision themselves as to what stays and what goes. Even if someone else gets rid of it, the hoarder must make the decision, or they will feel violated.

I like this sentence
The idea behind this treatment is that the more the patient is able to sift and discard, the more he or she habituates to this process.
That is definitely my experience, when once people start to declutter, it encourages them to do more.

Thanks Tina.
Many people try to help and believe if they just clean up the houses it will cure the problem.

Did you know.....

It is estimated that 600,000 - 1.2 million people hoard in the U.S.

I have a hoarding problem and I know I need help for it. I don't hoard garbage, but i find it impossible to get rid of my things. If anyone tried to 'help' me by tossing stuff when I was gone, I don't think I would ever forgive them.

One of my clients won a free closet storage system (before she was my client). The professionals came and removed all her stuff (they didn't throw anything away), then remodeled her closet. But my client was really upset by the process because all these strangers were touching her stuff.

Tina, i can see that. I don't like people touching my stuff either.