If you have watched even just a single episode of the reality series Hoarders, you will know what a far-reaching and dire impact hoarding can have on both the physical and mental health of an individual. Someone who is living with a hoarding disorder does not simply collect items that are of interest to them. Instead, they have a very strong and compulsive need to save items, regardless of their value or purpose. In order to gain greater insight into the condition, it is essential to not only understand the risk factors associated with it, but also be aware of the extent to which it can impact the mental and physical well-being of an individual.
What Could the Cause Be?
Although the exact cause of hoarding disorder remains unknown, scientists and doctors have managed to identify a series of risk factors that are commonly associated with the condition. Some of the most prevalent causes include having family members with the disorder (despite the absence of a distinct genetic link), a traumatic life event/series of events, or the presence of mental health disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and manic depression. Strangely enough, some perfectionists are also prone to hoarding even though you would expect someone who constantly strives towards perfection to have more control over such urges.
Less Clutter, Less Stress
Hoarding disorder can cause stress levels to skyrocket, even if the patient does not consciously view their hoarding habits as a problem. The stress can be caused by the inability to do seemingly normal things like preparing a meal or going to the bathroom without falling over whatever is stacked on the floor or by someone else’s attempts to clear up the clutter. In addition to stress, severe depression, panic attacks, and insomnia have also all been reported by people living with hoarding disorder. A minimalist lifestyle, on the other hand, can be of great benefit to your mental health. Getting rid of all your clutter and moving to a smaller house will not only do wonders for your mental health but for your finances and the environment as well.
Your Physical Health Can Suffer Too
In addition to the various mental health concerns that often stem from a hoarding disorder, a patient’s physical health can also be severely impacted. Some of the most common dangers associated with hoarding include structural damage, tripping and falling hazards, pest infestations, and severe mold growth. These dangers can result in a large variety of illnesses and injuries including allergy flare-ups and sprains and dislocations. Hoarding disorder can also go hand-in-hand with a decrease in physical activity which, again, can lead to a myriad of concerns typically associated with a sedentary lifestyle. This can include but is not limited to diabetes, obesity, and heart disease.
Hoarding disorder can cause great calamity in a person’s life. Apart from resulting in severe health and safety hazards, it can also lead to a number of agonizing mental health conditions. Plus, nobody likes to exercise in a messy room – it’s both awkward and dangerous. So clean up your home and free your mind and spirit.