Posted By janice on September 2, 2009

Hoarders, a new series on A&E, has aired four episodes and sparked discussions with my fellow organizers on Twitter and Facebook. Each episode depicts the stories of two different hoarders and follows them as they attempt to change their lives.

In terms of showing the emotional issues hoarders face, the show is excellent. So far, the hoarders in the show are in a serious crisis. Most face eviction from their homes or the removal of their children by Social Services. Really serious stuff.

The hoarders talk about their intense feelings about the process of dismantling their “collection” into trash bags. Just as important, the show also depicts the family members and friends who have stood by and watched the piles build. They feel both helplessness and anger at their loved one who they feel love their stuff more than them.

In a recent episode, the grown daughter of a woman declared she was done helping her mother, whose “saving” led to the removal of her ailing husband from the home by Adult Services. The court said her husband could not return home until the place was cleaned, and the mother was having a difficult time parting with her stuff, most of which she purchased at garage sales.

So far, the people featured on the show worked with professional organizers and are offered therapy. Hoarding is never about the stuff and uncleaniless. It’s about the stuff in your head.

The show is heartbreaking and enlightening so be prepared for the emotional roller coaster. You’ll also have a sudden urge to throw away something — anything.

Check out the show by looking at A&E’s website for rerun times or watch episodes and clips online. The website also features resources for hoarders and their families.

Categories: Chronic Disorganization
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