Hoarding is a complex behavioural condition whereby a person has persistent difficulty discarding or parting with possessions, regardless of their value. Over time, this can lead to clutter that affects daily life and even poses health and safety risks. In the UK, awareness of hoarding as a mental health issue is growing, and understanding the root causes can help families, carers, and professionals respond.
Emotional attachment and loss
One of the most common reasons people begin hoarding is emotional attachment. Objects can become symbolic of a person, a time, or a memory. For someone who has experienced loss, whether through bereavement, divorce, or trauma, keeping items may feel like a way of preserving the past.
Mental health conditions are linked to hoarding
Hoarding can be linked to mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive disorder. In these cases, hoarding may serve as a coping mechanism, as the act of collecting or saving items can provide a sense of control or comfort.
There has been a growing demand for mental health training courses Newport due to increased awareness of workplace wellbeing. Providers such as www.tidaltraining.co.uk/mental-health-training-courses/newport/ offer a range of courses.
Fear of not having enough
Some people hoard due to a fear of not having enough in the future, which might stem from a history of poverty, neglect, or instability. They may believe the items will become useful later, even if they have no immediate value. A leading social enterprise has warned that hoarding in the UK requires an urgent response and is a mental health emergency.
Hoarding can also result from difficulty with decision-making
People may fear making the wrong choice about what to keep or throw away, leading them to avoid discarding anything. This is often seen in people with perfectionist tendencies.
Social isolation can contribute to hoarding behaviour
In the absence of regular contact with others, possessions may take on a greater emotional role; for example, they may represent companionship or identity. In the UK, hoarding can be treated with cognitive behavioural therapy and support from social services.
