A new study has revealed that Hoarding Disorder can be characterised by a difference in the brains processing, which makes it painful for individuals with HD to discard of physical items.
RAGCP says of the study:
"Buying more and more things we think we need, and then not getting rid of them, is an actual disorder in the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (DSM–V). According to DSM–V, those with hoarding disorder compulsively acquire possessions on an ongoing basis and experience anxiety and mental anguish when they are thrown away.
A Yale University study using fMRI showed that for people who have hoarding tendencies, discarding items can cause actual pain in regions of the brain associated with physical pain. Areas of the brain were activated that are also responsible for the pain you feel when slamming a finger in a door or burning your hand on the stove.
People who suspect they have hoarding disorder can take heart: cognitive behavioural therapy has been shown to be an effective treatment."
The study can be found here.
Are you, or a loved one struggling with Hoarding Disorder? Do you need support? Prim and proper Homes are fully trained and experienced in working with Hoarding Disorder. Take that first step right now and reach out for a casual, no obligation chat to explore the ways in which we can support you.
All the best to you and yours,
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