Signs of Hoarding Disorder
Hoarding disorder is now recognised as a distinct mental health condition. Recognising the signs is the first step towards understanding and support.
Common signs
Hoarding disorder is more than untidiness. The recognised signs include:
- Persistent difficulty discarding possessions, regardless of value
- Strong urges to save items and distress at the thought of letting go
- Accumulation that clutters living areas and prevents their normal use
- Indecision, perfectionism and difficulty organising
- Embarrassment, anxiety or low mood linked to the home
- Withdrawal from friends, family and visitors
Hoarding vs collecting
Collectors usually organise and display items with pride. In hoarding, items accumulate in a disorganised way that interferes with daily life and causes distress. Our guide on hoarding vs clutter explores this further.
Where to find help
A GP is a good first port of call, and charities such as Mind and Hoarding UK offer valuable support. For practical, judgement-free help with the home itself, call us on 0800 494 7220.
This guide is provided for general information by Durham Hoarding, hoarding cleanup specialists serving County Durham. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice.