In 2013 Hoarding Disorder was officially recognised in the DSM-V (the fifth edition of the Diagnostic & Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders). In 2018 the World Health Organisation (WHO) followed suit, recognising it as a medical condition.

The NHS has published a page on Hoarding, click here for more details. Your GP is your first point of contact. Take a trusted friend with you to help explain the situation, you could even take photographs or ask for a home visit. You can download an 'Ice Breaker' form to start a conversation with your GP if you find it difficult to discuss, or use the Clutter Image Rating or Diagnostic Criteria available in Learn More > Download. Your doctor may also be able to refer you to a psychiatrist or psychologist, and connect you with any support projects, enabling teams or charitable organisations for hoarders in your area.

Some people find that prescribed medication can help to reduce the need to acquire, as well as the anxiety felt when discarding possessions. Speak to your doctor or psychiatrist to see if this approach may be right for you.

You may also qualify for “Direct Payments” through the NHS, to pay someone to assist you. More information here.