With the rise of reality television, chances are you’ve come across a show about hoarding at some point over the last few years. Produced mainly for entertainment purposes, these shows often taint the reality of hoarding, causing a wide misunderstanding of the condition and its severity. The truth is, hoarding is a serious medical condition that affects millions of people worldwide. With the right treatment and support, an individual’s hoarding tendencies can be overcome. Here are some tips for overcoming hoarding:
Be patient
As a condition, hoarding has the tendency to worsen over the course of years or even decades. As such, it takes time and dedication to overcome. Committing to decluttering for just 30 minutes per day is a manageable, non-overwhelming goal. Although it may seem insignificant, if you stick to this and clean up just a little bit per day, it will add up substantially over time. Throughout this process, try to be proud of each room you clean instead of focusing on the areas that are still cluttered.
OHIO rule
Use the acronym OHIO: Only Handle It Once. When you pick something up, decide right away whether or not you need to keep it. If the answer is yes, then decide where to store it. Once you’ve decided, let it go. If something doesn’t have a place or if you find yourself fiddling with it, reevaluate whether you really need it or not.
Organize
Keeping organized is crucial in the process of decluttering. Even something as simple as creating 3 piles: things to keep, things to put into storage and things to throw away, can make the process seem less daunting and far more manageable. If you pick something up and can’t think of a reason why you need to keep it, decide right then to put it in the pile of things to throw away.
Ask for help
Trying to declutter your entire home can be overwhelming and discouraging at times. Don’t be afraid to reach out to friends, family or professionals for help. They can help to make the decluttering process quicker and less stressful, and also serve as a reminder that you’re not alone. Additionally, professionals may be able to address the root of your hoarding condition and as a result, give you a more personalized treatment strategy to overcome it.
Hoarding Cleanup & Home Cleanouts in Peabody, Swampscott & Lynn, MA
Flannery’s Handymen is here to help you take steps to overcome hoarding! If you need assistance in cleaning a home that has been inhabited by a hoarder, call us today. Our team at Flannery’s Handymen has been trained in hoarding cleanouts and junk removal. If you’re interested in learning about our hoarding cleanup services, call us today at 781-775-9943 or fill out our online contact form.