Hoarding Disorder

Hoarding Disorder is characterized by persistent difficulty discarding or parting with possessions, regardless of their actual value. This difficulty leads to the accumulation of items that clutter living areas and significantly impair their intended use. Hoarding can create safety hazards and cause considerable distress. It is classified as an obsessive-compulsive and related disorder.

⚠️Symptoms

• Persistent difficulty discarding possessions regardless of value
• Perceived need to save items and distress at discarding them
• Accumulation of possessions that clutter living areas
• Significant distress or impairment in functioning

🔍Causes

• Genetics and family history
• Brain function differences in decision-making areas
• Stressful or traumatic life events
• Associated with OCD, depression, or anxiety

💊Treatment Options

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy specialized for hoarding
• Skills training for organizing and decision-making
• SSRIs or SNRIs medication