A level 1 hoarder is the least severe level of hoarding someone can experience. This type of hoarding is often not recognized by the hoarders themselves and sometimes even the loved ones around them. This level 1 phase is the beginning of a serious condition that can only get worse. If a level 1 hoarder is not helped in the early stages, it will only get worse moving forward as they continue and do not get the help they need. The early stages are the best way to get the help you need to recover and live a healthy, clean life. Discover the signs of level 1 hoarding below so you can determine if you fall into the category and how you can get the help you need.
Signs Of Level 1 Hoarding
Hoarding is a serious condition that involves collecting large amounts of items that are not worth much or cannot be used in a lifetime. There are many signs of hoarding, but a level 1 hoarder may include the following signs:
Difficulty Parting With Items
Like other levels of hoarding, a level 1 hoarder will have difficulty parting with items. These excessive items are redundant throughout the house, yet they will still be unable to get rid of them. This may include 100 pairs of socks or another household item but are not able to get rid of any socks or items that are damaged. They cannot part with one item, even though they have plenty of other spare items. Level 1 hoarders get attached to these items and will become anxious at the thought of losing them, even though they have plenty of backup items.
Excessive Shopping/Supply of Items
Another sign of a level 1 hoarder is that they excessively buy the items. They do not realize that they do not need any more items and have an addiction to shopping and buying. Even if they have all the needs for their household and items are already purchased, level 1 hoarders still have an obsession with buying items and often are fearful of running out, hence the constant buying. For example, some level 1 hoarders will purchase excessive amounts of paper towels and store them in a closet while still buying more paper towels the next time they are out in a store. Most hoarders can financially afford these items, but those who are struggling will still feel the need to buy them regardless of their financial status.
Little To No Visible Clutter
A level 1 hoarder is not the messiest and most severe hoarder. They often have a clean home and no clear signs of hoarding out in the open. They may hoard items in a closet or garage, keeping the inside of their home clutter-free. This may make it hard for others to realize that hoarding is going on in the home when it is not in front of their face.
No Odor and Sanitized Home
Along with the home being clean, there are also no smells or visible dirt in a level 1 hoarder home. These homes are clean and well-kempt compared to other levels of hoarding. A level 1 hoarder often cleans and sanitizes their home as other homeowners do. This deflects their obsessive collection of clutter and items because guests do not see their hidden stash of items they hoard. Most of the appliances in their home are functioning, and they are keeping up with care for their pets.
Get Help With Hoarding in Salem, MA
If you are a level 1 hoarder or a loved one is experiencing hoarding, now is the time to get the help you need. Level 1 hoarding may be less severe, but that doesn’t mean it is acceptable to live that way. Hoarding can take off and become more severe if not getting the attention and help it needs. Level 1 hoarding is the start of a serious downward spiral for your mental health and physical living conditions. Our team at Flannery’s Handymen can help with hoarding cleanouts in Salem, MA, and the north shore. We provide effective hoarding solutions, including cleanup and junk removal. Learn more about our hoarding help and how we can help by contacting us today!