Clutter vs. Hoarding
CLUTTER
Clutter is the disorganization and accumulation of belongings that are not stored or organized.
Clutter can make a living area less functional but not stressful. For example, clothes are on the floor, mail is piling up on a counter, etc.
How can we organize clutter? Simply by taking the time to put belongings away, put clothes in a laundry basket, clean, and discard what is no longer needed.
HOARDING
Hoarding is a mental health condition in which an individual has difficulty discarding (valuable and nonvaluable) belongings, leading to excessive clutter in living areas.
Hoarding can significantly impact daily life. Belongings are placed in disorganized piles, preventing the use of rooms and living areas.
How can we help a hoarder?
Please remember that this is a mental health disorder. Approaching the individual needs to be understanding and patient. As organizers, we do the same. Start with a conversation. If the individual is ready to seek help, then you may want to consult a professional.
AT WHAT POINT DOES CLUTTER BECOME HOARDING?
If clutter becomes a persistent problem, the accumulation becomes excessive and starts to disrupt their living area and everyday life.
There are five levels of hoarding:
Level 1: The Beginning Signs (light clutter, difficulty discarding)
Level 2: Clutter begins to accumulate (at least one room is unusable, withdraw from social interactions)
Level 3: Impact on Lifestyle (visible clutter, negative impact on relationships, more than one room unusable)
Level 4: Severe Clutter (most rooms unusable, increased isolation)
Level 5: Extreme Hoarding and Safety Risks (home-filled, unsanitary living conditions)
HOW RELATIONSHIPS CAN BE AFFECTED BY CLUTTER AND HOARDING
•They create tension with others, leaving them frustrated or angry about the mess.
•They can lead to feelings of shame and embarrassment in the individual
•They can lead to “boundaries” and no longer allow people into their homes.
•Both can create resentment and hinder communication with others.