Steve Green tells his story on living with a hoarding disorder

Hoarding disorder is a mental health condition characterized by persistent difficulty discarding or parting with possessions, regardless of their actual value, leading to clutter that disrupts living spaces and everyday life.

Steve Green recognized he had a hoarding disorder when the clutter in his home started interfering with his daily activities and relationships, and he felt overwhelmed by the amount of items in his possession.

Common symptoms include excessive acquisition of items, difficulty discarding possessions, cluttered living spaces, and significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.

Steve's hoarding behavior was influenced by a combination of factors including past trauma, emotional attachment to possessions, and a tendency to procrastinate and avoid decision-making.

Steve sought help by consulting mental health professionals, including therapists who specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) tailored for hoarding disorder. He also joined support groups for individuals with similar experiences.

While there is no definitive cure for hoarding disorder, it can be effectively managed with therapy, medication, and support. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been particularly effective in helping individuals reduce hoarding behaviors.

Therapy played a crucial role in Steve’s recovery by helping him understand the underlying causes of his hoarding behavior, develop strategies to manage it, and gradually declutter his home in a sustainable way.

Steve advises others to seek professional help, be patient with themselves, take small steps towards decluttering, and not be afraid to reach out to friends and family for support.

Friends and family can support someone with hoarding disorder by offering non-judgmental support, helping them seek professional help, and assisting with decluttering efforts in a respectful and understanding manner.

Steve faced emotional distress, overwhelming feelings, and difficulty in deciding what to discard. The sentimental value attached to many items also made the process challenging.

Yes, children can be affected by hoarding disorder, especially if they are living in a household where a parent or primary caregiver has the condition. Early intervention and support can help.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is commonly recommended for hoarding disorder. This type of therapy focuses on changing the thought patterns and behaviors that contribute to hoarding.

Signs include an inability to discard items, severe anxiety over discarding possessions, large amounts of clutter that make living spaces unusable, and significant distress or impairment in daily functioning.

In the UK, resources for individuals with hoarding disorder include the NHS, charities like HoardingUK, support groups, and private therapists specializing in hoarding disorder. Local councils also offer support services.

Steve Green’s life has improved significantly after managing his hoarding disorder. He experiences less stress and anxiety, enjoys more organized living spaces, and has better relationships with friends and family.