Compulsive hoarding and acquiring involves the acquisition of, and inability to discard, a vast number of possessions.
The homes of people living with hoarding are hazardous; the clutter serves as a fire hazard; individuals are at increased risk of falling, or having items fall onto them and collected waste can lead to unsanitary conditions. Consequently, people with compulsive hoarding are often too embarrassed to have people visit their homes, which can lead to reduced social interactions.
Hoarding behaviour has a strong relationship with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and it is estimated that 25-30% of individuals diagnosed with OCD have symptoms of compulsive hoarding. It is estimated that OCD affects 1 to 3% of Australians. (Source: Swinburne Psychology Clinic 2019)
When this condition results in squalor or a fire hazard, others may feel compelled to act. For example, neighbours may contact police or the environmental health unit at council or ring the customer line.
There are decluttering and cleaning services that can be brought in to support the situation. However, if it’s done in an insensitive way, this may cause significant psychological distress to the person or the hoarding behaviour may simply start afresh.
For help and resources, see Hoarding Home Solutions.