Frequently Asked Questions

Hoarding Disorder (HD) is a recognised mental health condition classified in both DSM-5 and ICD-11. It involves three key features: the accumulation of a large number of possessions; significant difficulty discarding them regardless of value; and severe clutter that prevents living spaces from being used for their intended purpose. It is not the same as being messy or untidy, and it is not a lifestyle choice.

No. Hoarding disorder was classified as a distinct condition in its own right in the DSM-5 (2013) and ICD-11, separate from OCD. While there can be overlap, hoarding disorder is characterised by different patterns of thought and behaviour, and responds differently to treatment. People with hoarding disorder often have limited insight into the impact of their behaviour, which is less common in OCD.

Hoarding behaviours often begin in childhood. They can be associated with experiences of trauma, grief, loss, and uncertainty, as well as neurodivergent conditions such as Autism or ADHD. Depression is the most common comorbidity. There is also evidence of a genetic component. Hoarding disorder is multi-factorial — there is no single cause.

Hoarding disorder is estimated to affect approximately 2–5% of the population, meaning there are potentially over two million people with the condition in the UK. It affects men and women roughly equally, and prevalence increases with age.

Yes. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) specifically adapted for hoarding disorder is the most evidence-based treatment. Progress is often slow and requires a trauma-informed, person-led approach. Simply clearing a property without the person’s engagement is not an effective long-term solution and can cause significant harm. Multi-agency support that addresses the underlying psychological drivers, as well as practical factors like housing and finances, tends to produce the best outcomes.