What traits do compulsive hoarders have?

What are the common traits of a hoarder?

An interesting fact is to know what are the characteristics of people who suffer from this disorder. We can summarize them in as follows:

 

  • Give excessive importance to objects and things. Their relationship with things is exaggerated, exorbitant.
  • The objects they hoard are not necessary, but they value them as if they were.
  • They have the perception that objects have an extraordinary value, a value that objectively they don’t have.
  • They have difficulty in making decisions, the main one being: “I throw it or I don’t throw it?”.
  • This behavior is usually related to lonely people, who tend to isolate themselves.
  • Deep down they know that it is inappropriate behavior, so they tend to hide from others to be able to hoard privately.
  • They are insecure people and generally have low self-esteem, which leads them to think that the more objects there are around them, the more sheltered they will feel and, therefore, more protected.
  • Their behavior is related to separation anxiety disorder. Thinking about getting rid of an object generates anxiety or guilt, and even extreme indecision.
  • They exaggerate the theory of recycling.
  • In some cases, neighbour’s have noticed their excessive storage behavior, even having endangered their health or that of others.

 

As mentioned, these are the common traits of a hoarder. If you know someone who suffers from this disorder, contact us. We are a team of compassionate professionals who regularly helps with hoarding situations. You can contact us by clicking here or by phone at 1-855-468-2588 (855.GOT.CLUTTER)

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