Hoarding

As a youngster, did you stuff your pockets or purse with string, tape, ribbon, a favorite toy- you know, it might come in handy someday.

No problem.  Many of us did it.  But, what about those of us in our adult years- possibly 20’s- 30’s?  Did hoarding become a bit of a problem?  Was the basement or garage becoming cluttered?  Now let’s look at our 40’s and beyond.  Has moderate clutter become more severe? Has the living room become an obstacle course? Have you sought treatment and/or diagnosed with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?

Let’s look at what experts have to say

“Late onset of hoarding (after age 40) is rare and seems to occur in people who have mild hoarding to begin with and suffer a loss of some kind- perhaps a stressful or traumatic event- common in people who hoard and may be associated with periods of worsening symptoms.

Hoarding is a complex disorder that is believed to be associated with emotional dysregulation in the form of depression or anxiety along with family histories of hoarding and generally high levels of perfectionism; perhaps ADHD-like symptoms, such as memory, categorization, and decision-making difficulties.

People who hoard form intense emotional attachments to a wider variety of objects- attaching human-like qualities to inanimate objects, feeling grief at the prospect of getting rid of objects, and deriving a sense of safety from being surrounded by possessions.

Finally, people who hoard often hold beliefs about the necessity of not wasting objects or losing opportunities that are represented by objects. Additional beliefs about the necessity of saving things to facilitate memory and appreciation of the aesthetic beauty of objects contribute to the problem”. (Randy Frost, PhD- International OCD Foundation)

You are not alone.  As many as 1 in 20 people have significant hoarding problems.

This is where Counseling on Demand comes in. You need not go through this alone.  With our support, you can get through these times.

We can help. You needn’t leave your favorite/private place. You may reach us from your home, office, while travelling- anywhere. Nor must you wait for an appointment.  We are there 24/7. You can begin in 24 hours or less.

You may contact us now. Your first consultation is free.

We await your call, email or text directly. If you want a face-to-face, we can Skype you on your computer, cell phone or tablet.