That Hoarder: Overcome Compulsive Hoarding

Latest Episodes:

#127 Overcoming overspending with Paige Pritchard, Money Coach Feb 09, 2024

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Today, I am joined by the insightful Paige Pritchard, a money coach and the owner of the Overcoming Overspending community. Together, we dig into the complexities of overspending, addressing its emotional roots and psychological impact on individuals' lives. Paige offers invaluable insights into understanding the deeper motivations behind spending habits and emphasises the need to reclaim control and satisfaction in life. We discuss practical strategies, such as the "urge jar" to create distance from impulsive buying and find fulfilment without overspending. Join us as we explore the psychological effects of spending habits and discover empowering approaches to overcome overspending.

Overspending defined
Impact of shopping on time, relationships, confidence.
Men face stigma for impulse spending, too.
Striving for perfection
Products tied to identity and feelings
Resist urge to splurge
Anticipation brings more pleasure than actual events.
Recognise brain's response
Individual approach: abstainer vs moderator.
YNAB for budget transparency.
Budgeting software provides helpful transparency for planning.
Impact of shopping on time, relationships, and financial confidence.
Perfectionism and spending habits
Consumerism links products to identities and emotions
Delay impulse buying
Baseline awareness of brain's response to threats
No spend challenges
Personal spending behaviour
Signs of overspending
Financial implications
Time spent on shopping and acquiring
Impact on relationships
Financial self-confidence
Impact on environment and clutter
Understanding Motivations and Emotional Experiences Behind Spending
Aspirational spending
Consumer culture
Deeper motivations behind spending habits
Impact of spending habits on psychological wellbeing
Deeper reasons behind excessive spending
Regaining a sense of control
Escaping life
Managing Impulse Buying
Scarcity Spending
The "urge jar" as a tool
Form a new habit loop
Dopamine without spending money.
Fear of missing out
Managing Regret
Decision Making
Inevitability of emotions
Implications of extreme approaches.
Budgeting software
Managing annual expenses
Psychological perspective behind impulsive buying
Creating distance before making a purchase.
Impact of social media on contributing to overconsumption
Downplaying shopping addiction.
The seriousness of shopping addiction and its effect on people's lives, especially for women.

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#126 Insight and hoarding with Dr Jan Eppingstall: Unravelling anosognosia, clutter blindness, denial, psychological reactance and overvalued ideation Feb 02, 2024

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Today with Dr Jan Eppingstall I explore the nuanced concept of insight in hoarding. From defining overvalued ideation to understanding the levels of insight, we unravel the challenges individuals face in recognising and addressing their hoarding behaviours. Through personal experiences, expert advice, and valuable research insights, this episode sheds light on personalised treatment approaches, effective communication strategies, and the importance of empathy and compassion. Get ready to gain a deeper understanding of hoarding disorder and discover practical ways to support individuals on their journey to overcoming compulsive hoarding.

Insight into Hoarding
Levels and Types of Insight
Insight Variability Among Individuals
Factors Influencing Insight (e.g. Comorbidity, Trauma, Life Experiences)
Insight Study by Helena Drury and Colleagues
Insight in Diagnosis of Hoarding Disorder
Relationship Between Hoarding Severity, Self-Criticism, Shame, and Preservation of Self-Concept
Overcoming Clutter Blindness
Getting Rid of Things and Challenging Thoughts
Taking Photographs of Living Spaces
Vulnerability in Showing Spaces to Someone Else
Exposing Oneself to Getting Rid of Things and Challenging Thoughts
Identifying and Addressing Lack of Insight
Anosognosia and Overvalued Ideation
Reflecting Feelings and Thoughts
The LEAP Technique for Support People, Coaches, and Therapists
Understanding Hoarding Behaviour
Motivations Behind Hoarding Tendencies
Defensive Denial and Psychological Reactance
Demographics and Characteristics of Hoarders in Research Settings and Community Services
Neurocognitive Damage and Insight into Hoarding Behavior
Communication and Approach in Supporting Hoarders
Validating Concerns and Correcting Misunderstandings
Empathetic and Compassionate Approach
Using "Yes, And" Technique in Conversations
Tailoring Therapy Approach for Hoarding Clients
Treating things as an Experiment
Importance of Curiosity and Playfulness in Therapy Approach
Limitations of Manualised Treatments

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#125 Clearing hoarding hurdles: Anticipating and overcoming roadblocks in the dehoarding process Jan 26, 2024

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By acknowledging potential roadblocks ahead, we can prepare emotionally and practically for upcoming challenges and even get more efficient when we’re dehoarding. I talk about the importance of being proactive, realistic, creative and adaptable when facing obstacles, while also seeking professional support when needed. I look at the need for planning, prioritising, and breaking down tasks into smaller chunks to overcome difficulties.

Anticipating obstacles improves efficiency and motivation.
Anticipating challenges leads to proactive decision-making.
Anticipate obstacles, reflect, and evaluate for success.
Stay open to possibilities, prepare for obstacles.
Planning can overcome mental obstacles for success.
Preparing for challenges in dehoarding process.
Anticipate challenges and plan preventive measures.
Allow yourself rest, plan ahead, ask for help.
Anticipating obstacles while working. Subconscious problem-solving.
Anticipating obstacles improves efficiency and reduces discouragement.
Anticipating challenges improves decision-making, reduces panic.
Being proactive is key.
Planning to deal with nostalgic stuff eventually, while focusing on current tasks and building up decluttering skills.
Anticipate and adapt to obstacles, focus on progress rather than completion. Reflection and objective evaluation are key.
Stay open to possibilities, prepare with needed supplies, seek advice on overcoming obstacles from others.
Address decision fatigue, burnout, and overwhelm to avoid stops and starts and make consistent progress.
Prepare for challenges, gain confidence from past experiences.
Anticipate and prevent burnout by pacing work, taking breaks.
Take days off even if it feels wrong. Plan ahead and seek help.
Tip for calming mind
Importance of Anticipating Obstacles
Benefits of problem-solving and emotional preparedness
Improving efficiency and momentum in the decluttering process
Assisting in planning, prioritising, and decision-making
Overcoming Challenges
Difficulty of anticipating obstacles, particularly for novices
Leveraging experience to anticipate and surmount obstacles
Adaptability, creativity, and flexibility in addressing anticipated obstacles
The value of trust, resourcefulness, and forward planning
Nostalgic items as potential distractions and triggers
The importance of realistic goal setting and objective evaluation
Anticipating Logistical Challenges
Ensuring necessary supplies are available
Learning from others' experiences with obstacles and their solutions
Importance of planning, breaking down tasks, and consistent progress

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#124 How the little-known Hummingbird Method can help you to dehoard the areas you’ve been avoiding Jan 19, 2024

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Today I delve into my experiences of overcoming avoidant behaviours when it comes to decluttering. I share how the Hummingbird Method has been instrumental in breaking down the fear and anxiety associated with tackling daunting hoarded areas.

Join me as I explore the power of gentle, gradual progress and the freedom that comes from challenging rigid beliefs and behaviours.

New method for managing tasks: hummingbird method.
Overcoming fears
Use the hummingbird method to beat procrastination.
Versatile method adaptable for different tasks and problems.
Challenging rigid beliefs to overcome hoarding habits.
Experiment, try new things, open new doors.
Gentle approach to tasks.
Change is necessary for progress.
Trying new things, starting small.
Understanding the Difficulties of Letting Go
The fear and difficulty involved in letting go of hoarded items
The sense of freedom and positive change that can result from letting go
Exploring hummingbirding
Overcoming inflexible behavior and thinking through the hummingbird method
The daunting piles were not as intimidating as imagined
Challenging limiting rules and stepping into avoided areas to confront tasks
Embracing a New Approach
Encouragement to experiment and try new ways of approaching difficult tasks
Starting with small steps, such as opening the cellar door
The passive nature of the "Hummingbird method" in breaking down avoidance barriers
Comparison to a kitten gradually expanding boundaries to become more comfortable
Applying the Hummingbird Method
Using the method to tackle fears and avoidance behaviours
Gradually familiarising yourself with daunting tasks or situations
Illustrative examples of avoiding tasks and gradually confronting them
Comparing the method to a child overcoming a fear of balloons at a party
The importance of flexibility and openness in challenging rigid beliefs and behaviours
One tool in a range of strategies
Recognising that there is no one-size-fits-all solution for overcoming hoarding and avoidance behaviours

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#123 The emotional impact of emergency dehoarding: confronting paralysis, shame, terror, panic and exhaustion Jan 12, 2024

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In today's episode, I delve into the emotional impact of emergency dehoarding. Over the last few weeks, I've faced the daunting task of decluttering my home in preparation for an impending electrical testing. I explore the rollercoaster of emotions, from terror and shame to motivation and determination, as I grapple with the challenges of addressing my hoarding situation. Join me as I uncover the journey of navigating through the paralysis and panic to making progress, all while acknowledging the emotional and physical toll of the process.

Stay tuned for practical insights, personal revelations, and a determined commitment to moving forward and not slipping back.

Overcoming fear and making progress step-by-step.
Planned time off and charity donation preparation.
Anticipated shame, ensuring access, fluctuating emotions.
Continual progress and proactive cleanup mindset.
Therapist support pivotal.
Overcoming challenges with tools and focus.
Cannot sustain that intensity, but need to keep moving.
Making rooms accessible.
Overcoming challenges one step at a time, managing panic and making progress amid fear.
Took time off, arranged charity collection.
Struggling with hoarding shame, balancing pragmatism and terror.
Focus on forward movement and addressing small tasks promptly.
Realising the value of decluttering and talking to therapist.
Facing challenges, equipped with tools and deadline.
Unable to sustain pace, seeking balance and progress.
Despite challenges, maintaining progress is beneficial in the long run.
The emotional impact of emergency dehoarding
Paralysis and panic when faced with the task of dehoarding the house
Overcoming initial resistance and taking gradual action to prepare for impending electrical testing
Managing emotions of terror, shame, and exhaustion during the process
Finding motivation in focusing on progress and benefits of a cleaner home
Coping with difficult tasks by reminding myself that it all had to be done
Creating a loose daily plan to guide efforts
Booking a charity collection for excess belongings providing practical assistance and motivation
Acknowledging the imperfect nature of the donation process but recognising its necessity
The role of support from a therapist and knowledge gained from a podcast about hoarding in managing the process
Developing a "toolbox" of knowledge and strategies through podcast, interviews, research, and listener stories
The benefits of having a deadline to stay focused and make progress in the hoarding situation
Reflecting on the improved hoarding situation and the emotional and physical toll of the process
Acknowledging the progress made and the determination to continue moving forward and not slip back
Making a conscious effort to avoid reverting to old habits, aiming to maintain balance and not let up on efforts to overcome compulsive hoarding

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#122 From ’it’ll do’ to ’make do’ Jan 05, 2024

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After a year where my subverted phrase of the year was "it'll do", I talk about how I'm hoping to continue shedding perfectionism and learn to be more resourceful and adaptable. Tune in to hear all about it.

2023 phrase "it will do" calms my perfectionist anxiety
Striving for tidiness, resisting hoarding tendencies
Retiring items when its purpose has been fulfilled
Embracing "it'll do" mentality for 2023 led to less stress and overthinking, allowing for more focus on important things.
Hoarders struggle with using what they have, but I'm seeking to become more adaptable and resourceful.
Facing challenges in decluttering, balancing desire for tidiness and fear of letting go.
Desire to reduce waste, finding satisfaction in finishing products.
Examples of how "it'll do" helped me make decisions and reduce stress.
Introduction of the new phrase for 2024, "make do," which emphasises resourcefulness and adaptability.
The influence of financial awareness in choosing the new phrase.
Desire to engage more with possessions.
Exploring the contradiction in hoarders' tendencies to find multiple uses for items to justify keeping them but not being resourceful in other ways.
The impact of perfectionism on the desire for the "perfect" item and the challenge to accept what is adequate.
The potential risk of using "make do" as an excuse to keep everything and the need for balance.
The acknowledgement of challenges in embracing "make do" and the importance of trusting the process.
Finding pleasure in finishing and using up items as a result of a shift in perspective.
Personal examples of feeling a sense of achievement in using items fully.
Comparing the emotional attachment to well-used items versus unused items.
The aim of "make do" to encourage thoughtful use of possessions and sustainable engagement with them.

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Remix: When you need to declutter urgently Dec 29, 2023

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Another really popular episode that a lot of you enjoyed. See you in 2024!

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Remix: Dehoarding: where to start Dec 22, 2023

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A replay of one of my most popular episodes, which I made in response to one of the listener questions I hear the most. Enjoy!

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#121 Can virtual reality help to treat hoarding disorder? With Dr Hannah Raila Dec 15, 2023

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In today's episode, I look at the intriguing use of virtual reality in treating hoarding disorder with our guest, Dr. Hannah Raila. Dr. Raila, a psychology researcher at UC Santa Cruz, shares her insights on how virtual reality can help individuals desensitise to distress and practice discarding virtual possessions. She discusses the immersive nature of the VR experience, the potential for the technology to attract more male research participants, and so much more. Join us as we explore the innovative possibilities of virtual reality in the treatment of hoarding disorder.

Novel treatment for hoarding using virtual reality
VR sessions focus on virtual discarding practice
Virtual reality to create distress for phobia treatment
Practice desensitization to discard and declutter effectively
Novel approach due to existing treatments not working for everyone
Study methodology including recruiting participants with hoarding disorder for buried in treasures group and virtual reality sessions
Creating a virtual world of participants' rooms and practicing discarding items in a psychologically immersive environment
New treatments for hoarding needed, virtual reality tested for hoarding, based on successful use in anxiety and PTSD
In-home visits helpful for reducing clutter but often not feasible
In VR therapy, practice discarding virtual objects to desensitise to distress
Virtual exposure therapy principle: Desensitise to distress by simulating real experiences
There is a debate about hoarding disorder prevalence and gender participation in research and treatment. More women seek treatment, but the disorder may be even across genders
The Stanford lab's community presence may influence gender participation
Testing novel intervention with existing treatments, attracting more patients, need for RCT before nationwide administration
Practice desensitisation by rating distress, discarding and tracking feelings to tolerate and declutter home
Preparing new study on contamination fears for OCD at UC Santa Cruz lab
Description of the virtual donation box, recycling, and trash bin in VR sessions
Facilitating repeated rehearsal of discarding virtual possessions for real-life application
Reported improvement in hoarding symptoms due to VR treatment
Time and technology challenges in programming and designing virtual worlds for the intervention
Practical Applications and Takeaways
Monitoring and tracking distress levels when discarding items
Applying desensitisation without a virtual space
Starting with easy-to-discard items and gradually progressing to more difficult ones
Potential of virtual reality to help people move up the ladder of difficulty in discarding
Dr. Raila's plans to continue virtual reality work
Conducting a study on difficulty discarding in the normative range

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#120 What a crooked church spire can tell us about failure and flaws and weirdness Dec 08, 2023

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In this episode, I delve into the weird world of imperfections, flaws, and uniqueness. Drawing inspiration from the Crooked Spire of Chesterfield, I share personal struggles with self-criticism and acceptance. It's a round-about look at authenticity and self-acceptance, via imperfections and community. I also share a hoarding secret from a listener and a top tip. Join me!

Chesterfield's Crooked Spire
Folklore and reality behind the Crooked Spire's twist
We often judge ourselves harshly
Old churches, old books, imperfections, universal struggles
Authenticity and honesty in safe spaces
Embracing self-acceptance and confidence
Challenging societal expectations leads to self-acceptance
Embracing imperfection, finding strength in community
Folklore and history intertwine at Chesterfield's Crooked Spire church
We tend to see flaws in ourselves, not in loved ones
Impact on self-esteem varies with mental health and stress
Struggling with self-judgment
Need spaces for self-expression, honesty, and mental health to avoid internal conflict and damage
Often start with difficulty, but ultimately reach a point of empowerment
Not conforming to societal expectations
Changing Faces charity for people with visible differences
Personal struggles with hoarding behaviour
Encourages self-acceptance and appreciation
Resilience and community embrace of imperfections
Personal growth and acceptance related to societal norms
Struggles with conforming to expectations
The beauty of imperfections
Old books with folded corners and underlined passages
The podcast as a place of honesty and authenticity

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