Common Myths about Hoarding Disorder

Unfortunately, the recent rise to fame of the concept of hoarding has led to many societal misconceptions.  Just as many people make unhelpful comments such as “I’m so OCD” on social media, the use of “hoarding” as a verb has really affected the widely held understanding of what hoarding actually is.  

Let's address some common myths about hoarding:

Myth 1: Hoarding is just a result of disorganization or lack of cleaning. 

Reality: Hoarding is a complex mental health disorder and is not simply a result of messiness or disorganization. It involves persistent difficulty discarding or parting with possessions due to a perceived need to save them. Hoarding behaviors are often driven by emotional attachments, fear of making wrong decisions, or a belief that objects will be useful or have sentimental value in the future.  A person with hoarding disorder might actually deeply value cleanliness, may attempt to organize and clean around the accumulation, but ultimately ends up feeling overwhelmed by the totality of the contents of their homes.  

Myth 2: Hoarding is a lifestyle choice. 

Reality: Hoarding is not a choice! It is a recognized mental health disorder listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). Individuals with hoarding disorder experience significant distress and impairment in various areas of their lives, including relationships, living conditions, and overall well-being.  In fact, in order for the accumulation behavior to qualify as hoarding, the person and their loved ones must suffer as a result of the behavior.  

Myth 3: Hoarding is the same as collecting. 

Reality: While hoarding and collecting may involve the accumulation of objects, they are very distinct behaviors. Collectors typically have a specific focus, organize their collections, and derive joy or satisfaction from their items. Collectors are able to In contrast, hoarding involves excessive acquisition and an inability to organize or discard possessions, leading to cluttered living spaces and functional impairments.  Many hoarders on some level wish for all the possessions to disappear (despite emotional attachment to the items).  

Myth 4: Hoarding can be easily cured by getting rid of possessions.

Reality: Hoarding disorder is a complex condition that requires a comprehensive approach to treatment. Simply removing possessions without addressing the underlying psychological factors and providing ongoing support is unlikely to lead to lasting change. The accumulation will begin again and the clearing of the possessions may be traumatic.  Effective treatment usually involves a combination of therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or specialized hoarding-focused therapy, and support from mental health professionals. At Kairos Wellness Collective, Elena Woughter is specifically trained in hoarding-focused therapy and has personal experience with the disorder.  She approaches clients with patience, empathy, and practicality.  

Myth 5: Hoarding only affects older adults. 

Reality: While hoarding disorder can be more commonly observed in older adults, it can affect individuals of any age, including children and adolescents. Hoarding behaviors can start in early adulthood and persist throughout a person's life if left untreated.  Digital hoarding has become a problem recently, and often presents in the younger population.  

Myth 6: Hoarding is not a serious problem. 

Reality: Hoarding disorder is a serious mental health condition that can have significant consequences on a person's life. It can lead to social isolation, strained relationships, health and safety hazards, financial difficulties, and increased risk of fires or infestations. The impact of hoarding on individuals' quality of life and functioning should not be underestimated.

It is important to challenge these myths and misconceptions surrounding hoarding disorder to promote understanding, empathy, and appropriate support for individuals affected by this condition.

Please contact Kairos Wellness Collective today if you or your loved one is affected by Hoarding Disorder.