Let’s be honest: most of us have a few items tucked away that we probably don’t need anymore. Maybe it’s a pair of slippers that don’t fit but belonged to a loved one who passed. Or an old t-shirt from college we’re sure we’ll fit into again “someday.” Maybe it’s a kitchen gadget that’s never seen the light of day, but we swear it’ll come in handy eventually.
It’s completely normal to keep things for sentimental reasons or “just in case.” But sometimes, holding on can go too far. That’s when we cross into something more serious—hoarding disorder.
What is Hoarding Disorder?
Hoarding disorder is more than just being messy or sentimental. It’s a mental health condition where someone has a persistent difficulty letting go of possessions—regardless of their actual value. The idea of throwing things away causes real distress, and over time, items start piling up.
This can happen gradually, or in some cases, people may suddenly gather large amounts of stuff. Eventually, homes can become so cluttered that it’s hard to move around, use rooms for their intended purpose, or even live safely. For example, the kitchen might be unusable, and narrow walkways might be the only clear paths through the house.
And here’s the hard part: people struggling with hoarding often don’t see it as a problem, which can make getting help challenging.
When Does it Start?
The early signs of hoarding disorder often show up in the teen or young adult years. It might start small, with saving too many things or struggling to get rid of anything. But as time goes on, and as life gets more complicated, the clutter grows. By middle age, it can become overwhelming and much harder to treat.
Some common signs include:
- Difficulty discarding items, even those with little or no value.
- Distress at the thought of throwing things away.
- Rooms filled with clutter to the point they can’t be used properly.
- Struggles with decision-making and organizing.
Perfectionism that leads to avoiding decisions altogether.
Hoarding vs. Collecting – What’s the Difference?
It’s important not to confuse hoarding with collecting. People who collect usually do so with intention; they look for specific items, organize them, and often proudly display their collections.
Hoarding, on the other hand, isn’t about enjoyment. It causes distress, creates chaos in living spaces, and can even lead to health and safety risks. In extreme cases, hoarding can lead to piles of trash or spoiled food, making the home unsafe and unsanitary.
It can also strain relationships—family or friends may try to intervene, which often leads to conflict. Social isolation and employment issues are also common.
Why Does it Happen?
Researchers are still trying to understand the exact causes of hoarding disorder. But a few key factors seem to be involved:
- Genetics: Hoarding can run in families.
- Brain function: Certain patterns in how the brain processes information may play a role.
- Life events: Stressful or traumatic events, such as the death of a loved one or a major life change, can trigger hoarding behavior.
Personality traits: People who struggle with decision-making, perfectionism, attention, or organization may be more at risk.
Why it Matters?
You might wonder, “What’s the big deal? If someone wants to keep stuff, isn’t that their choice?”
But hoarding can lead to serious complications, including:
- An increased risk of falls or being trapped by falling items.
- Fire hazards.
- Unsanitary living conditions.
- Family conflict and loneliness.
- Work performance issues.
- Legal troubles, like eviction.
It’s not about judging people for holding on to things. Many of us treasure keepsakes, photos, and mementos. But when the amount of stuff starts to impact someone’s safety, health, and quality of life, it’s time to take a closer look.
The Good News
Hoarding disorder is treatable.
It starts with recognizing the problem, and that can be the hardest step. But once someone is ready to seek help, treatment can make a big difference.
The most common treatment is cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT. This helps people learn to manage the thoughts and behaviors tied to hoarding and develop skills for decision-making and organizing. In some cases, medication can also help, especially if there’s anxiety or depression involved.
Holding on to What Matters
There’s nothing wrong with keeping things that bring you joy or hold meaning. We all have items that remind us of special people, places, or moments.
But if letting go of anything , even obvious clutter, causes distress, and if it’s gotten to the point where your home feels more overwhelming than peaceful, it might be time to seek support.
You’re not alone—and you don’t have to face it alone either.
