When people hear the word hoarding, it often brings to mind extreme situations shown on
television. But in reality, hoarding exists on a wide spectrum—from everyday clutter struggles to
a clinically diagnosed mental health condition. Understanding the difference between Hoarding
Behaviours and Hoarding Disorder can help reduce stigma and open the door to the right kind
of support.
The Institute for Challenging Disorganization (ICD), a leading educational resource for
professionals working with chronic disorganization, has developed tools and training to help us
better understand this distinction (challengingdisorganization.org).
Hoarding Behaviours
Hoarding behaviours may look like difficulty letting go of items, collecting “just in case” things, or
allowing clutter to build up until it feels overwhelming. These behaviours are not unusual—many
people hang onto belongings for emotional reasons, fear of waste, or because decision-making
feels exhausting.
The ICD emphasizes that hoarding behaviours on their own are not the same as a mental
health disorder. For some, the challenge comes from life transitions, stress, or patterns of
disorganization that have built up over time. With guidance, support, and new systems, these
behaviours can often be managed.
Hoarding Disorder
Hoarding Disorder, on the other hand, is a recognized mental health condition listed in both
the DSM-5 and the ICD-11. It involves:
● Persistent difficulty discarding possessions, regardless of their actual value.
● Living spaces that become unusable due to clutter.
● Significant distress or impairment in daily life.
Hoarding Disorder is not simply about being messy or disorganized—it is a complex condition
that often requires therapeutic support, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), in addition
to hands-on organizing help.
Why the Difference Matters
Recognizing whether someone is dealing with behaviours or a disorder is important because it
guides the type of support that will be most effective. While hoarding behaviours may respond
well to coaching and organizing strategies, Hoarding Disorder often requires a combination of
mental health treatment and organizing assistance.
The ICD has created practical tools like the Clutter–Hoarding Scale, which helps professionals
gauge the severity of clutter in a home. This scale is not a diagnostic tool but can provide a
clearer picture of when additional help may be needed.
Moving Forward with Compassion
If you or someone you love is struggling, remember that shame is not the answer. Hoarding
behaviours and Hoarding Disorder both benefit from compassionate support and practical
strategies. At Just In Time Solutions, we draw on ICD training and resources to help people
move forward—one step at a time.
You are not alone, and help is available.
