Hoarding?

[phoenixrising]

So I have been seeing my therapist for my ED for 3 1/2 years now, and we have made some good progress, especially since I started group therapy along with individual therapy (so I have some type of therapy every week, for the most parr). Well, I am also sort of realizing that I am pretty much also a hoarder. And we talked about it this week, so she knows, and I am going to talk to my psychiatrist when I see her in August to make sure my meds don't need to be changed to something that can help with my depression and anxiety and also this. But anyway...does anyone struggle with something similar? I am finding this to ignite more shame in me than my ED ever has. I have identified as a compulsive shopper for a long time, but I didn't really consider the "stuff" behind it, but yeah, it's there. Anyway, you guys are often my trusted sounding board, so I wanted to put this out there.

TIA!

[lovelovelove]

I haven't dealt with this myself. I'm sorry you're struggling. I have several family members that could probably be identified as hoarders and it's a tough situation all around. My dad is one and it seems to have to do with not being able to let go of memories / issues from his past, not the actual stuff but that he ties the stuff to times in his life if that makes sense. He also deflects a lot of it onto his sister who has similar issues. Unfortunately they haven't gotten help. I think it's so great that you've identified this and told your therapist and seem to have a good start to figuring stuff out.

Best thoughts to you. You're already on a great path.

[Deleted]

Hugs to you for acknowledging this. I know very little about hoarding but wish you all the best. Please if we can offer specific support let me know. I'm just so proud of you for working on these things.

[flex]

I'm not a hoarder, and I'm working on reigning in my compulsive shopping. Cancelling all my credit cards helped tremendously. Also, while I was packing to move to my new place, I saw how I'd buy several of the same things over and over (like my hockey game cowbells--holy crap!) Anyway, after all the moving stuff was done (still unpacking everything) I realized how much I really DON'T need all this crap. It's really helped me put things into perspective.

ANYWAY...I believe my shopping, and possibly your hoarding, are all part of the addictive personality. We need SOMETHING to give us a jolt of pleasure, but then we realize, after the thrill has worn off, that we have yet one more thing to add to the pile of material goods. And let's be honest...does it REALLY make us feel better? The answer is "no" because not only do we still have our issues that we have to deal with on a daily basis, but we have the anxiety and guilt: "oh no...I did it AGAIN! Why did I buy yet another pair of black high-heeled shoes???!!!"

KWIM?

[malibu]

I think it's awesome you're coming to terms with your compulsive shopping/hoarding/whatever the correct term may be. I hope your therapist/psychiatrist can address it and come up with solutions for you.