Hoarding

Recently both Dr. Phil and Oprah Winfrey have devoted entire programs to the subject of hoarding. While the TV shows were dramatic, it is important for people to realize that there are different levels of hoarding, as defined by The National Study Group on Chronic Disorganization (http://www.nsgcd.org/resources/clutterhoardingscale/nsgcd_clutterhoardingscale.pdf).

If you believe that someone you know is a hoarder, it is important for you to understand that people who have serious issues with hoarding may not accept assistance and can be difficult to work with. The worst thing you can do is to clear out the space without getting the hoarder to agree with the decision. People who keep what may seem to be trash have a strong attachment to their things and need help to part with those things.

Not everyone is able to work with hoarders. When I work with a serious hoarder, the chance that the changes in the environment will stick are greater if the hoarder works with a therapist at the same time. People who are hoarders are not going to change unless they really want to and unless they are given the appropriate tools to change.

Organized by Marcie: Getting you organized so you have time to do what you love to do!