Our Psychologists have availability for face-to-face and online appointments for adults, adolescents and children.
Our Psychologists have availability for face-to-face and online appointments for adults, adolescents and children.
Treatment for hoarding is most effective when it’s recognised early and supported with the right strategies. Hoarding is when someone finds it extremely difficult to throw things away, regardless of their actual value. Over time, possessions build up and can take over living spaces, making daily life stressful or even unsafe. Hoarding isn’t just about being messy or collecting—it’s often tied to feelings of comfort, security, or fear of losing something important. While some people may not see it as a problem, hoarding can seriously affect health, relationships, and overall quality of life if left untreated.
Hoarding can look different from person to person, but some signs are easier to spot:
Strong distress or anxiety when asked to throw away items, even if they’re broken or not useful
Rooms, hallways, or surfaces piled with items, making areas hard to use
Keeping or acquiring large amounts of items, often "just in case"
Believing possessions have special value or feeling safer when surrounded by them
Relationships strained by clutter, difficulty moving around the home, or feeling embarrassed to invite others in
Blocked exits, fire hazards, or hygiene issues caused by overcrowded spaces
About 2.5% of Australians live with hoarding disorder, rising to 7% in older adults
Hoarding affects men and women equally
Around 12% of NSW house fire deaths are linked to hoarding and squalor
Over half of people with hoarding disorder also have another mental or physical health condition
Research confirms that hoarding isn’t simply about being messy or sentimental—it’s a recognised mental health condition. People with hoarding disorder often describe feeling a strong emotional attachment to their possessions, as well as overwhelming stress at the thought of throwing things away. Studies show that difficulties with attention, memory, and decision-making can make it even harder to sort through belongings. Left untreated, hoarding tends to get worse with age, and it rarely improves without professional help.
What stands out in the research is how deeply hoarding can affect a person’s quality of life. Homes may become cluttered to the point that cooking, cleaning, or even moving safely through rooms becomes difficult. Many people report strained relationships, social isolation, or feeling too embarrassed to have visitors. Researchers also highlight safety concerns, with clutter increasing risks such as falls, fire hazards, or health problems.
When it comes to treatment for hoarding, research shows that specialised cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) is the most effective approach. Unlike general therapy, CBT for hoarding is very practical and skill-focused. It helps people:
One of the strongest findings is that therapy works best when it’s hands-on. Group CBT programs, in-home sessions, and therapist-guided sorting have all been shown to make a real difference. These approaches help people apply skills directly to their living spaces, rather than only talking about them in a clinic.
Some studies suggest that medications such as SSRIs—commonly prescribed for depression or anxiety—may offer limited benefits for people with hoarding disorder. However, the research is clear that medication alone is not enough. The most reliable improvements come from therapy, especially when it’s practical, structured, and focused on long-term change.
Research makes it clear: hoarding is best managed with the right support, and change is possible at any stage. If you or someone you care about is struggling with hoarding, our clinicians can provide evidence-based strategies and compassionate guidance tailored to your situation. Reaching out for help is the first step toward creating a safer, calmer, and more manageable home.
*Source: Recent Advances in Research on Hoarding – National Library of Medicine
Tackle one drawer, shelf, or corner at a time. Breaking it down makes treatment for hoarding feel less overwhelming.
Try short decluttering sessions (10-15 minutes). Quick wins build momentum without draining your energy.
Ask a trusted friend or family member to sit with you while you sort. Having support makes it easier to stick with it.
Clinical Psychologist, Director of MindBox Psychology
Our Psychologists are highly qualified, with Masters or Doctorate degrees in Clinical Psychology. We use evidence-based approaches, including Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), to provide tailored support for individuals struggling with hoarding behaviours, helping them reduce clutter, develop healthier habits, and regain control over their living spaces.
Hours: Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm
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