Hoarding disorder

Hoarding disorder is a persistent difficulty discarding or parting with possessions because of a perceived need to save them. A person with hoarding disorder experiences distress at the thought of getting rid of the items. Excessive accumulation of items, regardless of actual value, occurs. Hoarding disorder can affect anyone, regardless of age, sex, or economic status.

Symptoms and Causes

The main symptom of hoarding disorder is the persistent difficulty discarding or parting with possessions because of a strong perceived need to save them. People with hoarding disorder feel distressed at the thought of getting rid of items, leading to an excessive accumulation that congests and clutters living spaces and significantly impairs their use. The hoarding is not attributable to another medical condition (e.g., brain injury, cerebrovascular disease).

The exact cause of hoarding disorder is unknown. However, it is believed to be a complex disorder that results from a combination of genetic, developmental, neurobiological, and psychological factors. It often runs in families, suggesting a genetic predisposition.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis of hoarding disorder is typically made based on an individual's symptoms, behavior, and history. The American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) includes criteria for diagnosing hoarding disorder.

Treatment for hoarding disorder often involves psychotherapy, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which focuses on changing the hoarding behaviors and the thoughts and emotions that contribute to them. In some cases, medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), may be used to help control symptoms, although medication is not considered as effective as psychotherapy for hoarding disorder.

Impact

Hoarding disorder can have a profound impact on individuals and their families. The disorder can lead to unsanitary conditions, fire hazards, and other safety risks. It can also cause significant emotional distress, impair social functioning, and lead to isolation.

See Also

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
• Anxiety Disorders
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy