There has been a lot of attention in the media and in popular culture with the very real issue of people saving and gathering items and then not being able to get rid of them. This behavior, known as a hoarding disorder, is typically associated with objects but it can also include animals.
You may be surprised to find out that the American Psychiatric Association estimates that this disorder occurs in about 2 to 5 percent of the population, but this is just as estimate as many cases are not reported. It occurs in all areas of the world from El Paso, Texas to the farthest areas of the globe.
Not Collecting
It is important to understand that if someone in El Paso, Texas is diagnosed with hoarding disorder they are not just collecting. Collecting involves specific items or categories of items whereas hoarders simple gather and store anything from garbage to newspapers or virtually whatever they happen to find.
Often these items have no value or very little value but the individuals have the hoarding disorder believe that they do. They may also think that they have deep meaning to them or that they are necessary to protect against some future need.
In addition, collectors take great pains to display their collections and keep them safe, typically because they are of real value. People with hoarding disorder don’t do this; instead they pile things they find randomly in various spaces in the home on the property without any order or any attempt to organize.
Typical Signs of Hoarding Disorder in El Paso, Texas
The most common signs of hoarding disorder that you will notice in El Paso, Texas include:
• Large accumulations of materials piled without organization in the home, often obstructing the ability to use the rooms or walk in the home
• Difficulty in getting rid of items, even those that are broken or damaged
• Unrealistic value, either monetary or sentimental, placed on random objects
• Constantly bringing home more things even without a need and without storage space
Over time hoarding disorder will negatively impact the individual’s ability to function and to live in a safe, healthy environment. This is particularly true with hoarding of animals.
If you suspect that you, or a loved one in El Paso, Texas have a hoarding disorder there is help. Reach out to your doctor or mental health professional to start therapy to deal with this behavior.
