Hoarding disorder is a mental health condition characterized by excessive accumulation of objects and difficulty discarding them, resulting in clutter that interferes with the use of living spaces. Helping someone with hoarding disorder can be a challenging task, but with the right approach, it is possible to make a difference in their lives.
Psychological Help:
Hoarding disorder often co-occurs with other mental health conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Thus, psychological help is essential in treating hoarding disorder. It is important to approach the individual with hoarding disorder with empathy, respect, and understanding. Encouraging them to seek professional help from a therapist who specializes in hoarding disorder can help them learn coping skills and change their behavior.
How to help hoarders clean up:
Cleaning up a hoarder’s home is a daunting task that requires a sensitive and supportive approach. Here are some steps to follow:
- Start with a plan: Develop a plan with the individual that outlines the specific areas to be cleaned and the goals to be achieved.
- Work slowly: Take one room at a time and work at a pace that the individual is comfortable with. Avoid rushing or forcing them to part with their possessions.
- Sort items: Separate items into three categories: keep, donate, and discard. Encourage the individual to keep only the items that are essential and meaningful to them.
- Clean the space: Once the items have been sorted, clean the space thoroughly. This may involve hiring professional cleaners if the area is particularly dirty or hazardous.
- Establish routines: Help the individual establish routines for cleaning and maintaining their living space to prevent future hoarding behavior.
Professional Services:
If you or someone you know is struggling with hoarding disorder, it is important to seek professional help. Home Clean Home has a comprehensive 7-step approach that can help individuals with hoarding disorder. Our trained professionals can provide psychological support, organizational strategies, and cleaning services to help restore order and peace to the home. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help.
