Understanding Hoarding, Squalor, and Disorganisation for Better Self-Care

This guide is here to help you learn about challenges like hoarding, living in unclean spaces (squalor), and staying organised.

It’s written in simple words so you can reflect on your own life and take small steps toward feeling more in control. Remember, you’re not alone.

  • 1. Hoarding

    What It Is

    Hoarding means finding it very hard to throw away or give away items, even if others see them as useless.

    Letting go can cause stress or sadness, and over time, clutter can take over living spaces.

  • Common Signs

    Collecting papers, clothes, or junk mail that pile up.

    Clutter blocking walkways, beds, or counters.

    The problem grows slowly over years, affecting daily life.

  • Common Feelings

    Feeling anxious or upset when trying to part with things.

    Avoiding visitors because of the mess.

    "I told myself I’d sort it out on the weekend, but weekends came and went. The more the piles grew, the more I avoided that room. Soon, I couldn’t even sit at my own table."

  • Why It Happens

    Family history or genetics.

    Brain differences making decision-making harder.

    Stressful life events like grief or trauma.

    Links with anxiety, depression, or OCD.

    A way to feel safe or in control.

  • Self-Check

    Do you keep buying or picking up things when you don’t have space?

    Does sorting feel overwhelming?

    Has clutter strained your health, family, or work life?

  • Support & Resources

    (Anxiety and Depression Association of America):adaa.org

    IOCDF (International OCD Foundation):iocdf.org

    Buried in Treasures (self-help book)

    Anxiety Recovery Centre Victoria: Hoarding & Clutter Support Group. arcvic.org.au

  • Support & Resources

    Anxiety Australia: Group therapy in Melbourne’s east. anxietyaustralia.com.au

    Stuffology (Dr. Jan Eppingstall): stuffology.com.au

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When to seek help
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Squalor