That Hoarder: Overcome Compulsive Hoarding

#125 Clearing hoarding hurdles: Anticipating and overcoming roadblocks in the dehoarding process

Subscribe to the podcast - https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/subscribeBy 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 mindImportance of Anticipating ObstaclesBenefits of problem-solving and emotional preparednessImproving efficiency and momentum in the decluttering processAssisting in planning, prioritising, and decision-makingOvercoming ChallengesDifficulty of anticipating obstacles, particularly for novicesLeveraging experience to anticipate and surmount obstaclesAdaptability, creativity, and flexibility in addressing anticipated obstaclesThe value of trust, resourcefulness, and forward planningNostalgic items as potential distractions and triggersThe importance of realistic goal setting and objective evaluationAnticipating Logistical ChallengesEnsuring necessary supplies are availableLearning from others' experiences with obstacles and their solutionsImportance of planning, breaking down tasks, and consistent progress Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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

Subscribe to the podcast - https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/subscribeToday 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 fearsUse 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 GoThe fear and difficulty involved in letting go of hoarded itemsThe sense of freedom and positive change that can result from letting goExploring hummingbirdingOvercoming inflexible behavior and thinking through the hummingbird methodThe daunting piles were not as intimidating as imaginedChallenging limiting rules and stepping into avoided areas to confront tasksEmbracing a New ApproachEncouragement to experiment and try new ways of approaching difficult tasksStarting with small steps, such as opening the cellar doorThe passive nature of the "Hummingbird method" in breaking down avoidance barriersComparison to a kitten gradually expanding boundaries to become more comfortableApplying the Hummingbird MethodUsing the method to tackle fears and avoidance behavioursGradually familiarising yourself with daunting tasks or situationsIllustrative examples of avoiding tasks and gradually confronting themComparing the method to a child overcoming a fear of balloons at a partyThe importance of flexibility and openness in challenging rigid beliefs and behavioursOne tool in a range of strategiesRecognising 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.

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

Subscribe to the podcast - https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/subscribeIn 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 dehoardingParalysis and panic when faced with the task of dehoarding the houseOvercoming initial resistance and taking gradual action to prepare for impending electrical testingManaging emotions of terror, shame, and exhaustion during the processFinding motivation in focusing on progress and benefits of a cleaner homeCoping with difficult tasks by reminding myself that it all had to be doneCreating a loose daily plan to guide effortsBooking a charity collection for excess belongings providing practical assistance and motivationAcknowledging the imperfect nature of the donation process but recognising its necessityThe role of support from a therapist and knowledge gained from a podcast about hoarding in managing the processDeveloping a "toolbox" of knowledge and strategies through podcast, interviews, research, and listener storiesThe benefits of having a deadline to stay focused and make progress in the hoarding situationReflecting on the improved hoarding situation and the emotional and physical toll of the processAcknowledging the progress made and the determination to continue moving forward and not slip backMaking 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.

#122 From ’it’ll do’ to ’make do’

Subscribe to the podcast - https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/subscribeAfter 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 anxietyStriving for tidiness, resisting hoarding tendenciesRetiring items when its purpose has been fulfilledEmbracing "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.

Remix: When you need to declutter urgently

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

Remix: Dehoarding: where to start

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! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

#121 Can virtual reality help to treat hoarding disorder? With Dr Hannah Raila

Subscribe to the podcast - https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/subscribeIn 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 realityVR sessions focus on virtual discarding practiceVirtual reality to create distress for phobia treatmentPractice desensitization to discard and declutter effectivelyNovel approach due to existing treatments not working for everyoneStudy methodology including recruiting participants with hoarding disorder for buried in treasures group and virtual reality sessionsCreating a virtual world of participants' rooms and practicing discarding items in a psychologically immersive environmentNew treatments for hoarding needed, virtual reality tested for hoarding, based on successful use in anxiety and PTSDIn-home visits helpful for reducing clutter but often not feasibleIn VR therapy, practice discarding virtual objects to desensitise to distressVirtual exposure therapy principle: Desensitise to distress by simulating real experiencesThere 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 gendersThe Stanford lab's community presence may influence gender participationTesting novel intervention with existing treatments, attracting more patients, need for RCT before nationwide administrationPractice desensitisation by rating distress, discarding and tracking feelings to tolerate and declutter homePreparing new study on contamination fears for OCD at UC Santa Cruz labDescription of the virtual donation box, recycling, and trash bin in VR sessionsFacilitating repeated rehearsal of discarding virtual possessions for real-life applicationReported improvement in hoarding symptoms due to VR treatmentTime and technology challenges in programming and designing virtual worlds for the interventionPractical Applications and TakeawaysMonitoring and tracking distress levels when discarding itemsApplying desensitisation without a virtual spaceStarting with easy-to-discard items and gradually progressing to more difficult onesPotential of virtual reality to help people move up the ladder of difficulty in discardingDr. Raila's plans to continue virtual reality workConducting a study on difficulty discarding in the normative range Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

#120 What a crooked church spire can tell us about failure and flaws and weirdness

Subscribe to the podcast - https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/subscribeIn 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 SpireFolklore and reality behind the Crooked Spire's twistWe often judge ourselves harshlyOld churches, old books, imperfections, universal strugglesAuthenticity and honesty in safe spacesEmbracing self-acceptance and confidenceChallenging societal expectations leads to self-acceptanceEmbracing imperfection, finding strength in communityFolklore and history intertwine at Chesterfield's Crooked Spire churchWe tend to see flaws in ourselves, not in loved onesImpact on self-esteem varies with mental health and stressStruggling with self-judgmentNeed spaces for self-expression, honesty, and mental health to avoid internal conflict and damageOften start with difficulty, but ultimately reach a point of empowermentNot conforming to societal expectationsChanging Faces charity for people with visible differencesPersonal struggles with hoarding behaviourEncourages self-acceptance and appreciationResilience and community embrace of imperfectionsPersonal growth and acceptance related to societal normsStruggles with conforming to expectationsThe beauty of imperfectionsOld books with folded corners and underlined passagesThe podcast as a place of honesty and authenticity Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

#119 Homelessness and hoarding with Dr Jan Eppingstall of Stuffology

Subscribe to the podcast - https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/subscribeIn 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 similaritiesLack of hoarding-related academic articlesHomelessness can be caused by hoardingLack of support, finger pointing, no understandingExcessive stuff brings hope for normal futureA sense of safety motivates us to accumulate possessionsThe physical barrier between us and the chaotic outside world is importantExcess stuff can be seen as hope for a better futureSociety pressures us to make a perfect homeEpigenetics, trauma, and genes influence hoarding behaviourPoverty pushes some to become hoardersHumans want to share during crisesNeurodivergence, brain injuries, schizophreniaHomelessness and hoarding have similarities, including trauma, mental health issues, and fear of scarcityPossessions may be portable but excessive saving behaviour persistsHomelessness caused by hoarding; trauma leads to hoarding in new homeNeed to ask "What do you need?"The comfort of material possessionsPossible evidence of neurodivergence or organic brain injuries, schizophrenia, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, complex post-traumatic stress disorderThe importance of asking the right questions and providing appropriate supportApproach problems from various angles and keep iterating to find what worksShort-term focus of government hinders thisHomeless individuals trading stuff and the instinct to hoard when they find secure housingDifficulty in interrupting the primal hoarding instinctStrategies for interrupting the instinct, such as calculations and sharing with others in needNeed for a holistic approach and joined-up thinking to address hoarding and homelessness effectivelyLack of resources and understanding to support hoarders once they are housedTreating hoarders with dignity and respectImportance of appropriate questions and support due to the complexity of hoarding behavioursLack of support and assistance in addressing the root causes of homelessnessSense of control and safety that possessions offerImportance of addressing the additional traumas faced by homeless individualsStudy finding higher hoarding prevalence (18.5%) among homeless individuals compared to the general population (1.5-5%)Oversampling technique used to study rare subpopulationsOverlapping risk factors of hoarding and homelessness (trauma, grief, brain injury, neurodivergence)Sense of safety and need to create a home driving the accumulation of possessionsScarcity mindset and stockpiling items due to homelessnessEpigenetic processes potentially turning on genes associated with hoarding as a coping mechanismPoverty and uncertainty about basic necessities contributing to hoarding behaviorsImportance of listening to frontline practitioners and individuals in order to understand their needs Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

#118 Can we use AI to help us dehoard? Is it just hype or a promising solution?

Subscribe to the podcast - https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/subscribeIn 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 AIAI 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 existBard provided good breakdown of timings in real-world contextChatGPT 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 requestsAI chatbots cannot provide the same support as humansPrivacy concerns and lack of trust.Not ruling them out completely,but cautious about therapy-oriented botsAsking specific questions can yield better results.Skepticism about using AI for dehoardingNot wanting to just repeat what others have saidDescription of AI botConversation with the AI botCritique of the AI bot's adviceDescription of ChatGPT and Bard as AI toolsTips for using ChatGPT and Bard effectivelyComparison of their capabilities with declutteringLimitations and challenges with specificity and relevance to hoardingBenefits of using voice assistants for organizing and task managementExamples of tasks voice assistants can help withAI-driven coaching and therapyPotential benefits and use casesConcerns about privacy, emotional support, and effectivenessStrengths and weaknesses of using AI for dehoardingPersonal observations on specific tasks AI is good at, such as schedulingMention of AI's limitations, imaginary recommendations, and the need for skepticism Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.