Hoarding disorder is a complex mental health issue that affects an estimated 1.2 million people in the UK. It is characterized by an urge to acquire large amounts of possessions and an inability to get rid of them, even when they have no practical use or monetary value. This can lead to a person's quality of life being significantly impacted, causing distress and interfering with everyday living.
Jess, a 70-year-old woman from Bristol, has been living with hoarding disorder for years. Her problem with clutter began innocently, accumulating books to become more self-reliant after moving to university. However, as the years passed, her collection morphed into a hoard that was too overwhelming to face. She felt embarrassed and ashamed when her parents couldn't visit her due to the clutter, and she went into 'panic mode' when the doorbell rang, fearing shame and judgment.
Horace, another individual with hoarding disorder, also experienced a 'sense of loss' when his father threw away his collection of 1920s records without consulting him. This led to him stockpiling books and newspapers, even digging through neighbors' recycling boxes to avoid wasting valuable information.
Both Jess and Horace have joined a charity group called Making Space, funded by Bristol City Council, which provides practical and emotional support for those with the condition. Volunteers receive training to work one-on-one with tenants, offering two hours of their time a week.
Case manager Naomi Morgan describes the role as 'hugely rewarding', helping to transform people's lives by increasing their confidence and well-being. Jess has found the experience not only helpful in clearing space but also in 'making a home', looking forward to a more sociable and less anxiety-ridden future.
It is important to treat those with hoarding disorder with kindness, patience, respect, and empathy, allowing them to remain in control. Even if you can't understand it, don't be judgmental. Try to support them by encouraging them, rather than simply saying 'this is no way to live'.
