This blog is sponsored by NAPO Business Partner, College Hunks Hauling Junk
What is Hoarding Disorder?
Everyone can have a difficult time with letting things go – whether it’s a sweatshirt from an ex, a note from a loved one, or that guitar you’ve had for years but never learned to play. It’s human nature to grow attached to an object, and that’s okay. It only becomes an issue when it’s persistently difficult for someone to let go of their belongings and it causes distress on that individual. This is called Hoarding Disorder, and, in the extreme cases, it can negatively impact your daily life.
Hoarding Disorder can cause a variety of complications in one’s life. A hoarder may become lonely and socially isolated which can lead to family issues. They will also face an increased risk of falls, being trapped or injured by shifting objects, and fire hazards. Depending on the severity of the disorder, they may face legal issues (such as an eviction) and health issues (due to living in an unsanitary environment).
The Early Signs of Hoarding Disorder
Hoarding Disorder can be caught in the early stages, and with help from family, friends, and/or licensed professionals can be dissipated before it becomes a life-threatening issue. Some of the early signs of Hoarding Disorder are the inability to throw away belongings, becoming distressed when faced with throwing away possessions, and difficulty in organizing items. Some people may have a lot of belongings, but if they organize the items, they’re not exhibiting an early sign of hoarding. Hoarding becomes an issue when someone has a lot of belongings and just places them anywhere in their home. The items may be stacked or strewed throughout the home in a disorderly fashion.
How to Help a Friend in the Early Stages of Hoarding Disorder
When someone tries to help a hoarder, it can put a lot of stress on both individuals. The first step to helping a hoarder is to gather a support system. Reach out to your and the hoarder’s friends and family to solicit help, both physically and mentally. It’s a good idea to connect with a mental health professional that can assist with creating a plan of attack. Licensed professionals have experience dealing with these situations and can alert you of what to expect.
Keep in mind that someone does not become a hoarder overnight. By that same token, the disorder will not be resolved overnight either. There are companies that can assist with hoarding issues, but you cannot simply rent a dumpster for a weekend and remove all their items. The individual finds value in each of their items and will have a difficult time with letting one item go – let alone many of their belongings. It’s important to celebrate the baby steps. Even if they are only willing to get rid of one or two items, it’s a step in the right direction.
The next step in helping the individual recover, is by addressing them and the situation. They likely don’t see that hoarding is a problem – especially in the early stages of Hoarding Disorder. Approach them with love and compassion to make them feel comfortable and place trust in you. Never shame or threaten someone that is showing signs of Hoarding Disorder as this will move the situation backwards.
If your friend works with a therapist to overcome their disorder, they’ll likely have tasks to complete after each session. Help him with his tasks but do not complete the tasks for him. He needs to feel a sense of pride in his actions.
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