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: Pathological or compulsive hoarding is a specific type of behavior characterized by; failing to throw out a large quantity of items that would appear to have little to no value to others, severe cluttering of the person’s home so that it is no longer able to function as a viable living space, and significant distress or impairment of work or social life. (About.com)


​​​​​ Who?
​Many researchers have estimated that about half of one percent of the world population suffers from compulsive hoarding, but in fact the number may be higher. Hoarding usually begins during one’s childhood or their early teenage years. Hoarding does not usually become severe until they reach adulthood. Compulsive hoarding can be genetic and may run in families.
​Hoarding may affect up to as many as two million people in the United States alone. Hoarding is often found in people who suffer from other diseases such as, schizophrenia, dementia, Alzheimer’s, and anorexia. (harthosp.org)



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​​​ What are the signs?
​Inside the homes of those who suffer from compulsive hoarding, you will find the sinks, countertops, bathtubs, floors, and any other surface covered with stacks of things that have little to no value to other people. Other signs and symptoms include, inability to discard items, cluttered living spaces, moving items from one pile to another without discarding anything, difficulty organizing items, excessive attachment to possessions, shame or embarrassment, and little or no social interactions. (mayoclinic.com)

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​​​​ Causes
​Most cases of severe compulsive hoarding are caused because of genetics. About 85% of people who suffer from compulsive hoarding can identify at least one other family member with the same condition. Hoarding can also be caused by abnormal brain development and brain lesions. Compulsive hoarding may sometimes begin after certain kinds of brain damage including, strokes, surgery, injuries, or infections. Emotional stress may also heighten the symptoms of hoarding. (ucsd.edu)
​Some say that people with compulsive hoarding had a deprived childhood. Their lack of toys, love, and even food may be the cause of their hoarding. Through their hoarding they are making up for their deprivation as a child.