Many people do not understand the challenges that hoarders face. The first question we often want to ask them is, why can’t you let it go? Why can’t you get rid of the stuff you are hoarding? The common answer is that there is an emotional attachment to the items that hoarders are hoarding. Hoarding often comes from a deep emotional attachment to the possessions in a hoarder’s home. There can be a fear of running out of an item or not having enough. Discover below more about the emotional attachment behind hoarding and why many hoarders have difficulty letting go.
Reasons For Emotional Attachment Behind Hoarding
Sentimental Value/Nostalgia
For most hoarders, the items they are hoarding hold sentimental value. These items are nostalgic and are related to specific memories of their childhood or past. This makes it harder for hoarders to get the help they need and part with items that they have. Discarding these items makes them feel they are losing a part of themselves and getting rid of their identity or past.
Perfectionism
Many hoarders also struggle with perfectionism or OCD disorders. They become obsessed with their items and are often controlling about how they are handled. They find it difficult to categorize items as trash or keep, and they do not want anyone to touch their stuff or risk breaking it or ruining it. Their perfectionism often makes it harder for them to get help when they need it.
Indecisiveness
A reason hoarders may have gotten to where they are is their indecisiveness. They may find it hard to decide on throwing out or saving things as they fear they may need them again later down the road. Not being able to make decisions is hard for hoarders, and they struggle with that as they make choices of their own at home. This leads to them accumulating more stuff and not doing anything about it, which makes their hoarding situation worse.
Fear of Loss
Many hoarders are afraid of losing items, so they often keep their items close. Holding on to these excessive possessions helps them feel comfortable and safe. They are afraid of losing these items because they see them as valuable and useful in their current lifestyle. This can relate to the hoarders’ past, when they may have struggled with scarcity or a lack of something in their childhood. Holding these items close to them and not allowing many people into their homes is a part of their fear of loss.
Get Hoarding Help in Salem, MA
Flannery’s Handymen helps homeowners get hoarding help in Salem, MA, and the North Shore. Our team of cleanout and moving experts are patient and ready to help your loved one get the help they need. We offer junk and trash removal services so we can help your family or friend easily part with items they no longer need. Hoarding help is the first step to a healthier and happier lifestyle. If you or someone you know is hoarding and struggling with everyday life, contact our team today for a free quote!
