Here of late, I have began watching Hoarders on Arts and Entertainment channel (Channel 38 on Comcast here in Atlanta) and was under the misconception that it was something of a new phenomenon. Turns out I was wrong -- I had been hearing about it for years, but knew it by another name -- Collyer's Mansion Conditions. It was originally coined by the Fire Department of New York (FDNY) to describe a residential dwelling (either a single-family dwelling or an apartment building) that is cluttered either by a collector or a "pack rat". I also learned the original name for such a situation was Collyer's Mansion Syndrome.
What causes Hoarding Disorder? The exact cause is unknown, however, researchers have identified a number of risk factors including having a family member who also suffers from a problem with hoarding. Genetic research has recently shown that there are certain gene variants that might convey the risk of becoming a hoarder. There is also a confirmed correlation between brain injuries and acquired or secondary hoarding symptoms in some patients.
The symptoms of hoarding disorder - such as difficulty in discarding items - is usually first seen during the teen years. If these symptoms are not treated, the hoarding disorder tends to become chronic often becoming more severe over the decades. Interestingly, the Collyer brothers were an exception to this rule as both were in their early to mid-twenties when they began hoarding.
Is hoarding disorder treatable? The answer is yes. According to the American Psychiatric Association it can be treated using either medication or cognitive behavior therapy (CBT). Patients treated with CBT gradually learn to discard the unecessary items while, at the same time, experiencing less stress and diminishing their exaggerated perceived need (or desire) to save these possessions. They also learn to improve their organizational, decision-making, and relaxation skills.
To find help with hoarding disorder in the Atlanta area, contact.The Anxiety and Stress Management Institute
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| New York Police officers investigate conditions inside of the Collyer mansion |
The symptoms of hoarding disorder - such as difficulty in discarding items - is usually first seen during the teen years. If these symptoms are not treated, the hoarding disorder tends to become chronic often becoming more severe over the decades. Interestingly, the Collyer brothers were an exception to this rule as both were in their early to mid-twenties when they began hoarding.
Is hoarding disorder treatable? The answer is yes. According to the American Psychiatric Association it can be treated using either medication or cognitive behavior therapy (CBT). Patients treated with CBT gradually learn to discard the unecessary items while, at the same time, experiencing less stress and diminishing their exaggerated perceived need (or desire) to save these possessions. They also learn to improve their organizational, decision-making, and relaxation skills.
To find help with hoarding disorder in the Atlanta area, contact.The Anxiety and Stress Management Institute
