That Hoarder: Overcome Compulsive Hoarding

Subscribe to the podcast - https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/subscribe 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Subscribe to the podcast - https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/subscribe 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Subscribe to the podcast - https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/subscribe 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. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Another really popular episode that a lot of you enjoyed. See you in 2024! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The host reflects on unique holiday shopping methods to reduce home clutter. They discuss the emotional challenges of dehoarding, stressing the right mindset as essential for starting this journey. Practical steps are shared, focusing on manageable tasks and personal decision-making rules. The importance of seeking support and celebrating small victories is highlighted, alongside therapeutic strategies. Finally, resources for listeners are provided, including connections to community support and intriguing media recommendations.

Subscribe to the podcast - https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/subscribe 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Subscribe to the podcast - https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/subscribe 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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Subscribe to the podcast - https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/subscribe In today's episode, Dr Jan Eppingstall and I will be diving into a topic that is rarely discussed - homelessness and hoarding. We will explore the limited research available on the connection between these two issues and the complex factors that contribute to both. We uncover the connections between trauma, loss, and mental health issues that can lead to both homelessness and hoarding behaviours as well as the instincts associated with hoarding and the difficulties in interrupting these instincts. Homelessness and hoarding: connections and similarities Lack of hoarding-related academic articles Homelessness can be caused by hoarding Lack of support, finger pointing, no understanding Excessive stuff brings hope for normal future A sense of safety motivates us to accumulate possessions The physical barrier between us and the chaotic outside world is important Excess stuff can be seen as hope for a better future Society pressures us to make a perfect home Epigenetics, trauma, and genes influence hoarding behaviour Poverty pushes some to become hoarders Humans want to share during crises Neurodivergence, brain injuries, schizophrenia Homelessness and hoarding have similarities, including trauma, mental health issues, and fear of scarcity Possessions may be portable but excessive saving behaviour persists Homelessness caused by hoarding; trauma leads to hoarding in new home Need to ask "What do you need?" The comfort of material possessions Possible evidence of neurodivergence or organic brain injuries, schizophrenia, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, complex post-traumatic stress disorder The importance of asking the right questions and providing appropriate support Approach problems from various angles and keep iterating to find what works Short-term focus of government hinders this Homeless individuals trading stuff and the instinct to hoard when they find secure housing Difficulty in interrupting the primal hoarding instinct Strategies for interrupting the instinct, such as calculations and sharing with others in need Need for a holistic approach and joined-up thinking to address hoarding and homelessness effectively Lack of resources and understanding to support hoarders once they are housed Treating hoarders with dignity and respect Importance of appropriate questions and support due to the complexity of hoarding behaviours Lack of support and assistance in addressing the root causes of homelessness Sense of control and safety that possessions offer Importance of addressing the additional traumas faced by homeless individuals Study finding higher hoarding prevalence (18.5%) among homeless individuals compared to the general population (1.5-5%) Oversampling technique used to study rare subpopulations Overlapping risk factors of hoarding and homelessness (trauma, grief, brain injury, neurodivergence) Sense of safety and need to create a home driving the accumulation of possessions Scarcity mindset and stockpiling items due to homelessness Epigenetic processes potentially turning on genes associated with hoarding as a coping mechanism Poverty and uncertainty about basic necessities contributing to hoarding behaviors Importance of listening to frontline practitioners and individuals in order to understand their needs Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Subscribe to the podcast - https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/subscribe In today's episode, I dive into the topic of using AI to help us dehoard. I have some skepticism about AI and its ability to assist with decluttering. However, after exploring various AI options I share my findings and experiences with these tools. From providing tips and schedules to even taking on personas like Dolly Parton, AI can offer some assistance in the decluttering process. I also discuss the use of AI voice assistants and AI-driven coaching, discussing their potential benefits and my concerns. Join me as I explore the strengths and weaknesses of using AI as a tool in decluttering and dehoarding. Mixed results with AI AI voice assistance for dehoarding tasks. Privacy concerns, limited effectiveness of chatbots. Fact-checking is better done personally. AI decluttering apps listed by Bard didn't exist Bard provided good breakdown of timings in real-world context ChatGPT and Bard can expand on previous answers. Streamline decluttering, prioritise tasks, and explore personas with Chat GPT and Bard. I used an AI tool to mimic Dolly Parton's style for a video. AI voice assistants like Siri, Google, and Alexa can help with tasks like playing music and organizing, allowing users to have conversations and make requests AI chatbots cannot provide the same support as humans Privacy concerns and lack of trust. Not ruling them out completely,but cautious about therapy-oriented bots Asking specific questions can yield better results. Skepticism about using AI for dehoarding Not wanting to just repeat what others have said Description of AI bot Conversation with the AI bot Critique of the AI bot's advice Description of ChatGPT and Bard as AI tools Tips for using ChatGPT and Bard effectively Comparison of their capabilities with decluttering Limitations and challenges with specificity and relevance to hoarding Benefits of using voice assistants for organizing and task management Examples of tasks voice assistants can help with AI-driven coaching and therapy Potential benefits and use cases Concerns about privacy, emotional support, and effectiveness Strengths and weaknesses of using AI for dehoarding Personal observations on specific tasks AI is good at, such as scheduling Mention of AI's limitations, imaginary recommendations, and the need for skepticism Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Subscribe to the podcast The topic for today is perfectionism and its connection to hoarding. I talk with Dr Jan Eppingstall about perfectionism and its impact on hoarding behaviour. We share personal experiences and struggles with perfectionism, discussing the fear of failure and the tendency to give up if something cannot be done perfectly. We also touch upon the importance of psychological flexibility, being present in the moment, and living by our values. Dr. Eppingstall enlightens us with insights on challenging rigid thought patterns, breaking free from the demands of perfection, and embracing personal growth. Perfectionism and fear of failure drive hoarding. Perfectionism linked to hoarding and obsessive personalities. Rigid thinking Surprised by others' flexibility Children with insecure attachment blame themselves for parents' problems. Curiosity, experimentation, and flexibility lead to growth. Encouraging exploration leads to personal growth. Regretting inaction is a bigger regret. Relax, do it wrong, get more done. Perfectionism and fear of failure relate to hoarding. Concerns over mistakes and parental criticism are prominent. Being creative with limited resources to find solutions and not being rigid in following rules or plans. Turtle mode hinders logic, self-criticism hampers progress. Children with insecure attachment due to a parent's mental illness or preoccupation tend to believe they cause their parents' problems They feel pressured to help their parents and seek validation through achievements and obedience to alleviate their parents' sadness or anger. Perfectionism linked to trauma response, family expectations. Fear of negative emotions, regret of not pursuing dreams. People are adaptable and inventive Give yourself permission to make mistakes, relax, and get more done The reluctance to start or complete tasks to avoid an imperfect outcome Self-criticism and lack of confidence as common problems with perfectionism Overcoming perfectionism and embracing flexibility Psychological flexibility: being present, taking action guided by values The importance of curiosity and challenging behaviours Living by values rather than solely focusing on goals The role of a support system in venturing outside the comfort zone Taking small, cautious steps outside the comfort zone Opening up slowly leads to personal growth and a sense of accomplishment Breaking rigid thought patterns through repeated challenging Recognising triggers and behaviours associated with perfectionism Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) as helpful approaches Perfectionism as a manifestation of people-pleasing and trauma response Perfectionism leading to feelings of not being enough or worthy Using perfectionism as a coping mechanism for emotions and relationships Addressing perfectionism through therapy and exploring its underlying reasons Progress and success can still be achieved even if things don't go perfectly or as planned Regretting not doing the things we wanted to do in life rather than letting go of physical possessions Challenging negative "what if" scenarios and highlighting potential positive outcomes Demanding standards, self-criticism, fear of wasting or making mistakes in hoarding behaviour Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.