Hoarding is not just about clutter and disorganization. Hoarding can have a severe impact on a person's quality of life. While there are no exact reasons for hoarding, research shows that it is often linked with stressful life events. In this blog post, we will explore the possible reasons for hoarding and the role of mental health professionals in diagnosing and treating this condition.
Often, a traumatic or stressful life event such as a divorce, the loss of a loved one, or financial problems triggers hoarding. The individual may perceive hoarding as a coping mechanism, providing a sense of control over their environment. For example, hoarding sentimental items like old photographs or clothing may provide comfort to a person experiencing grief.
As researchers have noted, hoarding is not simply a preference for material possessions. Hoarders may experience feelings of intense fear, shame, guilt, or loneliness, and tend to use hoarding as a coping mechanism to avoid these feelings. Hoarding can be especially problematic because they are typically unable to perceive the severity of the problem.
Mental health professionals usually begin with a comprehensive evaluation that includes a detailed assessment of the person's symptoms and their medical history.
If you or a loved one is struggling with hoarding, it is critical to seek professional help and support. You do not have to face hoarding alone. Bio-One can support you throughout the hoarding cleanup process with compassion, discretion, and expertise. Our trained and certified technicians will assess the situation and develop a customized cleanup plan that meets your unique needs.