Signs and Symptoms
Signs and Symptoms of Hoarding Disorder
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of Hoarding Disorder is the first step toward getting help. Common indicators include:
- Excessive Acquisition: Feeling compelled to collect or purchase items, even when unnecessary or unaffordable.
- Inability to Discard Items: Extreme difficulty in parting with belongings, regardless of their value.
- Cluttered Spaces: Living areas become so filled with items that they are no longer functional (e.g., beds covered in items, kitchens unusable due to cluttered counters).
- Emotional Distress: Experiencing intense anxiety, indecision, or fear when contemplating getting rid of possessions.
- Social Isolation: Avoiding visitors, friends, or family due to embarrassment over the state of one’s home.
- Safety Hazards: Accumulation of items leading to fire risks, falls, or even infestations.
Hoarding affects people from all walks of life, with an estimated 2-6% of the population struggling with the disorder. Severity varies, but for many, professional help is essential to navigate the path to recovery.