Many people have seen hoarding disorder on reality TV, where homes are filled with piles of clutter. But hoarding is much more than just being messy—it’s a real mental health condition that makes it extremely difficult for people to throw things away.
So why do some people develop hoarding disorder? Scientists believe it’s caused by a mix of genetics, brain differences, and life experiences.
What Is Hoarding Disorder?
Hoarding disorder is when a person finds it almost impossible to part with belongings, even things that others might see as useless. Unlike collectors, who carefully organize and display their items, people with hoarding disorder often have disorganized, cluttered spaces that interfere with their daily lives.
It’s not just about being untidy—it’s about feeling deep distress at the thought of getting rid of things.
Why Do Some People Develop Hoarding Disorder?
There isn’t one simple reason why hoarding happens. Scientists think it’s caused by a combination of genetics, brain function, and personal experiences.
- Genetics: Can Hoarding Run in Families?
Studies show that hoarding disorder can run in families, which means genes might play a role. A study in the American Journal of Psychiatry in 2014 found that people with a close relative who has hoarding disorder are more likely to develop it themselves.
However, just because someone has these genes doesn’t mean they will definitely become a hoarder. It’s like playing a game of cards—having certain genes might increase the chances, but other factors still play a role.
- Brain Differences: How Hoarding Affects Decision-Making
Brain scans have shown that people with hoarding disorder react differently when faced with throwing things away. When asked to make decisions about their belongings, certain areas of their brain—especially those involved in decision-making and emotions—become highly active.
A 2013 study published in Archives of General Psychiatry found that people with hoarding disorder struggle to categorize items and make choices. This may explain why sorting through their possessions feels so overwhelming.
For them, deciding what to keep and what to throw away isn’t just a simple task—it causes extreme stress and anxiety.
- Life Experiences: Can Trauma Trigger Hoarding?
Some people start hoarding after going through a traumatic event, such as losing a loved one. They may hold onto objects as a way to cope with grief or anxiety. Their belongings provide a sense of security, like a protective shield against emotional pain.
A study in The Journal of Clinical Psychiatry in 2011 found that people who grew up in cluttered homes were more likely to develop hoarding disorder later in life. This suggests that a person’s environment and upbringing can also contribute to hoarding behaviors.
Putting the Pieces Together
Hoarding disorder is complicated. It’s not simply about being untidy or overly attached to things. It’s influenced by genetics, brain function, and personal experiences—all of which make it hard for people to let go of their possessions.
While there’s still a lot to learn, researchers are working to better understand this condition so they can develop better ways to help.
If you or someone you know is struggling with hoarding, it’s important to seek help from a mental health professional. Support and treatment can make a difference, and no one has to face it alone.
If you care about mental health, please read studies about how dairy foods may influence depression risk, and 6 foods you can eat to improve mental health.
For more mental health information, please see recent studies about top foods to tame your stress, and Omega-3 fats may help reduce depression.
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