• The persistent difficulty discarding or parting with possessions, regardless of the value others may attribute to these possessions.
• Difficulties due to strong urges to save items and/or distress associated with discarding
• Accumulation of a large number of possessions that fill and clutter active living areas so that their intended use is no longer possible”
• Symptoms cause clinically significant distress or impairment, including inability to maintain a safe environment for self and others*
  *Definition according to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual 5 (DSM-5)

Group therapy provides social interactions and can be advantageous in reducing stigma and isolation, providing support and positive modelling experiences.

What can be achieved through this support group:

• Understanding about what hoarding is and its implications in your life.
• Understanding participant’s emotional attachment to their belongings
• Learning new strategies on how to detach from items stored and strategies to deal with the emotional reactions that discarding items can cause
• Learning new behavioural and cognitive patterns that are healthier and allow the participants to feel empowered to make changes in their lives.
• Development and practice of sorting, organising, and decision-making skills
• Sharing experiences with others who are dealing with similar situations

Who can benefit from this support group:

• Adolescents and adults experiencing hoarding issues