There is always something in our closet that we never want to discard as it holds a special place in our lives. Be it that school shirt or those sneakers parting ways with these things seems tough. However, hoarding is when we struggle to discard many unnecessary objects, and we collect more than we can throw away. Hoarding disorder is recognized as a serious mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. As per studies, it is seen as a distinct mental health condition which involves persistent difficulty discarding or parting with possessions due to a need to save them.

As per researchers and experts, hoarding is caused due to the following reasons:

Genetic Factors: Research indicates that hoarding disorder can run in families, suggesting a genetic component. A study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry found that individuals with a family history of hoarding are more likely to develop the disorder themselves.

Brain Function and Structure: Studies have shown that people with hoarding disorder may have abnormalities in brain regions involved in decision-making, impulse control, and emotional regulation. A study published in the Archives of General Psychiatry, found that individuals with hoarding disorder had distinct patterns of brain activity compared to those with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and healthy controls.

Traumatic Life Events: Many people with hoarding disorder have experienced traumatic or stressful life events, such as the death of a loved one, divorce, or financial difficulties. These events can trigger or exacerbate hoarding behaviours.

Psychological Factors: People with hoarding disorder often have perfectionist tendencies, intense emotional attachment to possessions, and difficulty making decisions. These psychological factors can contribute to the development and maintenance of hoarding behaviours.

Hoarding disorder disrupts daily life. Common anxiety symptoms in hoarding disorder include palpitations, shortness of breath, insomnia, sweating, and psychosomatic issues like muscle tension, stomach problems, and body aches, which are prevalent in most anxiety disorders. The symptoms of hoarding disorder can vary in severity and may include:

- Excessive Acquisition: Persistent difficulty discarding or parting with possessions, leading to the accumulation of a large number of items that fill and clutter living spaces.

- Distress or Impairment: Significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning due to hoarding behaviours.

- Indecisiveness: Difficulty making decisions about what to keep and what to discard, leading to the accumulation of unnecessary items.

- Attachment to Possessions: Strong emotional attachment to possessions, often believing that they have unique significance or will be needed in the future.

- Avoidance: Avoidance of situations that involve making decisions about possessions, such as cleaning or organizing.

Managing Hoarding Disorder

Managing hoarding disorder can be challenging, but with appropriate treatment and support, individuals can improve their quality of life. Here are some effective strategies:

- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is the most well-researched and effective treatment for hoarding disorder. It helps individuals identify and challenge distorted beliefs about possessions, develop decision-making skills, and gradually reduce clutter. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology in 2014 demonstrated the efficacy of CBT in reducing hoarding symptoms.

- Medication: In some cases, medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may be prescribed to help manage symptoms of anxiety and depression associated with hoarding disorder. However, medication alone is usually not sufficient and is most effective when combined with therapy.

- Professional Organisers: Professional organisers can assist individuals with hoarding disorder in developing organisational skills and creating manageable plans to reduce clutter. They can provide practical support and guidance in the decluttering process.

- Support Groups: Support groups offer a safe space for individuals with hoarding disorder to share their experiences, gain insight, and receive encouragement from others facing similar challenges. They can be a valuable resource for emotional support and motivation.

- Family Involvement: Family members can play a crucial role in supporting their loved one with hoarding disorder. Educating family members about the condition and involving them in the treatment process can enhance the effectiveness of interventions.