Hoarding: What Everyone Needs to Know (R)

Hoarding disorder is the excessive saving of objects and difficulty parting with them, which can lead to dangerous sanitary conditions and structural problems. This book demystifies the complex problem, explaining how it can be treated as a mental illness and providing an essential resource for first responders.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 216 pages
\n Publication date: 26 November 2020
\n Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc
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Hoarding disorder, a complex condition characterized by excessive saving of objects and a struggle to part with them, can significantly impact an individual's ability to utilize and enjoy their home spaces. When hoarding reaches dangerous levels, it can lead to structural issues, fires, and hazardous sanitary conditions, posing significant risks to the well-being of those involved. Research suggests that approximately one in every 25 individuals suffers from hoarding, indicating that it is a condition that affects a large portion of the population.

Hoarding: What Everyone Needs to Know aims to demystify this intricate problem, providing a comprehensive understanding of what hoarding looks like, why it may develop, and the available treatment options. Drs. Steketee and Bratiotis, with their combined expertise in psychological treatments for hoarding and community interventions, offer valuable insights into how to perceive hoarding as a mental illness. The book explains hoarding in simple terms, outlining its various facets and manifestations. Chapters are dedicated to addressing common questions related to diagnosis, features, assessing severity, and treatment approaches. By dispelling myths and offering practical guidance, this book serves as a valuable resource for individuals who suspect a loved one may be hoarding, as well as first responders, such as firefighters, public health officials, and housing and social service personnel, who require essential information for their work in the field.

Understanding hoarding as a mental illness is crucial, as it helps individuals and communities address the challenges associated with this behavior. Hoarding can manifest in various ways, including the accumulation of excessive items that clutter living spaces, making it difficult to move around and maintain cleanliness. It can also involve emotional attachment to these items, making it challenging to let go. Hoarding can have negative impacts on physical health, mental well-being, and relationships. It can lead to isolation, decreased productivity, and increased stress levels. Additionally, hoarding can pose safety hazards, such as tripping hazards, fire hazards, and pest infestations.

Treatment for hoarding typically involves a combination of psychological interventions and practical support. Psychologists work with individuals to address the underlying emotional and psychological factors that contribute to hoarding behavior. They may use cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to help individuals change negative thought patterns and develop coping strategies for managing their belongings. Support groups and counseling can also provide a sense of community and validation for individuals struggling with hoarding. In addition, practical interventions such as decluttering, organizing, and downsizing can help individuals create more functional and livable spaces.

Community interventions are also important in addressing hoarding. These interventions involve working with communities to raise awareness about hoarding and provide resources and support to individuals and families affected by the condition. Community organizations, housing authorities, and social service agencies can collaborate to provide education, training, and referrals to appropriate treatment options. They can also offer assistance with decluttering and organizing homes, providing temporary storage solutions, and connecting individuals with support services.

It is important to note that hoarding is a complex condition that requires patience, understanding, and professional support. Treatment should be tailored to individual needs and should be approached with empathy and compassion. By recognizing hoarding as a mental illness and providing appropriate treatment and support, individuals and communities can help individuals affected by hoarding lead fulfilling lives and improve their overall well-being.

In conclusion, hoarding disorder is a complex problem that affects a significant portion of the population. Understanding hoarding as a mental illness, providing appropriate treatment and support, and engaging in community interventions are essential steps in addressing this issue. By working together, we can help individuals affected by hoarding lead fulfilling lives and improve the quality of life for everyone.

\n Weight: 260g\n
Dimension: 139 x 208 x 19 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780190946388\n \n