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That Hoarder: Overcome Compulsive Hoarding

That Hoarder: Overcome Compulsive Hoarding

By: That Hoarder
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 Hoarding disorder is stigmatised and people who hoard feel vast amounts of shame. This podcast began life as an audio diary, an anonymous outlet for somebody with this weird condition. That Hoarder speaks about her experiences living with compulsive hoarding, she interviews therapists, academics, researchers, children of hoarders, professional organisers and influencers, and she shares insight and tips for others with the problem. Listened to by people who hoard as well as those who love them and those who work with them, Overcome Compulsive Hoarding with That Hoarder aims to shatter the stigma, share the truth and speak openly and honestly to improve lives.© 2023 Overcome Compulsive Hoarding with @ThatHoarder Hygiene & Healthy Living Psychology Psychology & Mental Health
Episodes
  • #207 13 actionable pieces of mental health advice from six former podcast guests

    #207 13 actionable pieces of mental health advice from six former podcast guests
    Dec 12 2025
    Come to a Dehoarding Accountability Zoom Session: http://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/ticketSubscribe to the podcast: https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/subscribePodcast show notes, links and transcript: http://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/ This episode, I’ve pulled together the best mental health advice from every guest I spoke to over the past year - academics, therapists, organisers, and people with lived experience. Each of them shared a personal habit or practice that genuinely helps them cope or keep on top of their wellbeing, and I add a couple of my own strategies too. Whether you’re navigating hoarding, supporting someone who is, or just looking for affordable ways to protect your own mental health, stick around for a mix of practical, honest tips to try for yourself. Special Episode Format: Compilation of Guest AdviceThroughout the year, every guest was asked about habits or practices supporting their mental health.Guest Contributions: Mental Health Habits and PracticesHarriet Impey (Episode 172)Mindfulness and meditation, especially mindful self-compassion (inspired by Kristin Neff).Practical examples: Being present, guided meditation, practicing non-attachment, and self-reflection on letting go of unhelpful arguments.Dr Jan Eppingstall (Episodes 174 & 204)Practicing gratitude to counterbalance negativity bias.Unsubscribing from unwanted emails to reduce anxiety and overwhelm.Interacting with pets for grounding and emotional well-being - petting animals as a stress reliever.Visiting places where animals are accessible (e.g., city farms, pet shops, animal cafes).Jasmine Sleigh (Episode 175)Importance of good sleep for mental health.Value of pleasurable activities like reading, and the paradox of sometimes resisting enjoyable activities (self-sabotage).Reflection on how engaging in enjoyable pastimes is essential even when it's difficult to get started.Sam (Episode 178)Writing things down: Keeping lists of achievements and things to be grateful for, even small joys.Acknowledging how gratitude doesn’t have to be grand - simple moments count.Exercise, particularly running, or any activity that gets you outside of your current headspace (could be walking, volunteering, etc.).The role of support from others to prompt new perspectives or activities.Dr. Victoria Ruby-Granger (Episode 179)Self-awareness and accepting what works for you, rather than trying to fit yourself to methods that don’t suit.Emphasis on letting go of approaches that don’t align with your own needs, and being open to alternative strategies.Carrie Lagerstedt (Episode 183)Moral neutrality: Separating self-worth from issues like executive dysfunction, lateness, and messiness.Reframing these traits as value-neutral rather than personal failings, helping to build self-esteem.That HoarderCreative self-expression: Resentful journaling, collage, and visual arts—done primarily for personal expression, not for others’ approval.Permission for creative works to be imperfect and focused on process over outcome.Nature connection: Getting outside, paying attention to natural details (flowers, leaves, colours, wildlife), and practicing mindful observation to foster grounding and perspective.Importance of self-compassion, giving oneself credit for small achievements (especially with meditation or walks).Allowing yourself pleasurable, nurturing, or healing activities without guilt.Noticing the bigger world and natural cycles as a counter to internal struggles.Encouragement for listeners to reflect on which practices resonate and to share their own tips. Links Podcast ep 172: Harriet Impey on clearing out her parents’ very full home, through family belongings and personal growth, in the film Where Dragons LivePodcast episode 174: How to feel grounded when we’re overwhelmed or dysregulated using ventral vagal spaces and touchstones, with Dr Jan EppingstallPodcast ep 175: Taking the scary first steps: the courage to call a professional organiser, with Jasmine SleighPodcast ep 178: Growing up in a hoarded home: Sam’s story as the child of a Mum who hoardsPodcast ep 179: How hoarding behaviours develop and early intervention for hoarding disorder, with Dr Victoria Ruby-GrangerPodcast ep 183: ADHD, executive dysfunction and creating hacks and systems to reduce clutter chaos, with Carrie LagerstedtPodcast ep 204: Am I my things? When possessions define us: the psychological connection between identity, self-concept and hoarding with Dr Jan EppingstallCome to a Dehoarding Accountability Zoom session: Accountability Booking FormWebsite: Overcome Compulsive HoardingBecome a Dehoarding DarlingSubmit a topic for the podcast to coverQuestions to ask when dehoarding: https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/podquestionsInstagram: @thathoarderpodcastTwitter: @ThatHoarderMastodon: @ThatHoarder@mastodon.onlineTikTok: @thathoarderpodcastFacebook: Overcome Compulsive Hoarding with That HoarderPinterest: That ...
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    53 mins
  • #206 Finding connection and community when hoarding feels isolating

    #206 Finding connection and community when hoarding feels isolating
    Nov 28 2025
    Come to a Dehoarding Accountability Zoom Session: http://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/ticketSubscribe to the podcast: https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/subscribePodcast show notes, links and transcript: http://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/ Hoarding disorder can feel deeply isolating, and finding genuine connection isn’t always straightforward. In this episode, I talk about building community - both through hoarding-specific peer groups, online spaces, as well as simply nurturing friendships outside the home. I share practical ways to reconnect, set boundaries, and remind yourself that you deserve care and companionship, whatever your home looks like. The Relationship Between Hoarding and IsolationHow hoarding and isolation often accompany each otherFeelings of shame and concern about being misunderstoodSecrecy around hoarding, even from friendsImpact of loneliness on motivation and self-worthThe fundamental human need for connectionFinding Community: Hoarding-Specific SupportBenefits of speaking with others who “get” hoardingRelief and authenticity in hoarding-focused communitiesMisunderstandings and stigma around hoarding in general societyShared language and understanding in dedicated groupsTypes of Hoarding CommunitiesPeer support groups (both for people who hoard and for their loved ones)Differences between in-person and online groupsDehoarding accountability Zoom groups run by the hostTherapy groups led by professionalsOnline forums, social media groups, and subredditsChoosing a Support Group and Overcoming BarriersThe process of finding the right group for your needsNot all groups will fit; trial and error is normalCommon barriers: fear of judgment, privacy concerns, and feeling overwhelmedExploring online versus in-person options based on comfort and accessManaging triggers and emotional challenges when joining a groupBroadening Community Beyond HoardingImportance of connection outside of the hoarding contextHow hoarding can lead to progressive social isolationWays to set boundaries while still building relationshipsAlternative Sources of Community & ConnectionJoining hobby or interest-based groups (gardening, book clubs, crafts, etc.)Attending classes and workshops (in-person or online)Volunteering for shared causes and the benefits it offersEngaging in outdoor activity groups for physical and mental healthInvolvement in faith communities (acknowledging varied experiences)Nurturing and Rekindling FriendshipsThe value of maintaining and nurturing friendshipsStrategies for reconnecting with old friends (acknowledging awkwardness)Personal anecdotes demonstrating successful reconnectionMaintaining and Deepening Existing FriendshipsCreative ways of keeping in touch (memes, postcards, regular outings)Showing care and interest without inviting people into your homeImportance of honesty about personal limitationsNavigating difficult moments with friends through gentle outreachBuilding New FriendshipsThe importance of patience and consistent small effortsTransitioning from casual acquaintance to meaningful connectionReciprocity and mutual engagement as key to growing relationshipsNatural pace of friendship developmentThe Value of Self-CompassionBeing a good friend to yourself while seeking social connectionsAvoiding self-blame and catastrophic thinkingRecognising your own worth despite challenges related to hoardingTaking Small Steps Toward ConnectionEncouragement to take actionable, manageable steps to build communityCelebrating small efforts toward greater connectionRealistic expectations about gradual progressSuggestions for relevant previous podcast episodes on loneliness, accountability, and community Links Podcast ep 200: Things I wish I’d known: a letter to Episode One MePodcast ep 130: Loneliness and hoarding with Vassia Sarantopoulou: build human connections and combat hoarding-related shamePodcast ep 138: The Accountability Effect: Accountability, encouragement and mutual support when tackling hoarding and dehoardingCome to a Dehoarding Accountability Zoom session: Accountability Booking FormWebsite: Overcome Compulsive HoardingBecome a Dehoarding DarlingSubmit a topic for the podcast to coverQuestions to ask when dehoarding: https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/podquestionsInstagram: @thathoarderpodcastTwitter: @ThatHoarderMastodon: @ThatHoarder@mastodon.onlineTikTok: @thathoarderpodcastFacebook: Overcome Compulsive Hoarding with That HoarderPinterest: That HoarderYouTube: Overcome Compulsive Hoarding with That HoarderReddit: Overcome Compulsive Hoarding with That Hoarder subredditHelp out: Support this projectSponsor the podcast Subscribe to the podcast Subscribe to the podcast here
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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • #205 How to recover without burning out: using pacing to find your dehoarding rhythm

    #205 How to recover without burning out: using pacing to find your dehoarding rhythm
    Nov 22 2025
    Come to a Dehoarding Accountability Zoom Session: http://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/ticketSubscribe to the podcast: https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/subscribePodcast show notes, links and transcript: http://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/ Getting on top of hoarding disorder isn’t about powering through in one big go. It’s all about slowing down, pacing ourselves, and making sure our approach is actually sustainable, both for our bodies and our minds. In this episode, I talk honestly about the risks of burnout and emotional overload when we try to rush the process, and why giving ourselves permission to work in small, manageable steps is key. I’ll share practical ways to set our own pace, spot the warning signs of pushing too hard, and celebrate the progress we make - even when it’s slower than we’d like. The Nature of Recovery from Hoarding DisorderRecovery isn’t a race or a sprintPressure to fix things quickly—internal and externalDebunking the ‘quick fix’ mythImportance of sustainability in recoveryPhysical Aspects of DehoardingPhysical tasks: sorting, organising, donating, recyclingThe relentless and exhausting nature of physical dehoardingRisks of pushing too hard:Physical exhaustion and injuryImpact of chronic pain, health problems, disabilityDecision-making fatigue from exhaustionThe danger of creating a more overwhelming messRisks of BurnoutBurnout as a consequence of overexertionEmotional impact: quitting, avoidance, dreadDehoarding becomes associated with pain and sufferingEmotional Aspects of PacingUnique emotional relationships with possessionsAssociations, memories, grief, nostalgia, identityAnxiety and emotional flooding in decision-makingThe consequences of pushing past emotional limits:Panic, anxiety, ruminationAvoidance and procrastinationLoss of confidence in decisionsSwinging between extremes: keeping everything vs. discarding everythingThe Impact of Emotional FloodingDamaging relationship with recoveryRecovery viewed as painful or traumaticUnrealistic expectations for overnight emotional changePersistence of difficult emotional patterns despite progressNon-Linear Nature of ProgressUnderstanding setbacks and relapses as part of the processImportance of patience and realistic expectationsThe need to build new emotional and cognitive pathways over timePositive Signs of Emotional ProgressAbility to sit with discomfort and uncertaintyRecognising and managing patterns and triggersGradual increase in resilience and emotional toleranceRecognising Gradual Physical and Emotional RecoveryImproved recovery time after difficult sessionsGrowing confidence in handling challengesLearning that healing and progress are not linearPractical Approaches to PacingTime-based strategies:Working in manageable time chunksScheduling regular breaks and days offFocusing on sustainable, consistent sessions over marathonsDecision-based strategies:Limiting the number of decisions per sessionIdentifying easier vs. harder tasks or categoriesQuick wins to boost motivationChecking in with oneself physically and emotionally during workBuilding in soothing or rewarding activities post-sessionSigns of Sustainable PacingCompleting sessions feeling tired but not destroyedFeeling able to return for future sessions without dreadMaking decisions that feel good in retrospectEnjoyment and pride in gradually improving one’s spaceAdapting Pace to Life CircumstancesPace varies with health, mood, season, responsibilitiesFinding what works for the individual and the current season of lifeCompassionate RecoveryThe importance of self-compassion in setting and respecting limitsCelebrating progress and honouring our human experience Links Come to a Dehoarding Accountability Zoom session: Accountability Booking FormWebsite: Overcome Compulsive HoardingBecome a Dehoarding DarlingSubmit a topic for the podcast to coverQuestions to ask when dehoarding: https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/podquestionsInstagram: @thathoarderpodcastTwitter: @ThatHoarderMastodon: @ThatHoarder@mastodon.onlineTikTok: @thathoarderpodcastFacebook: Overcome Compulsive Hoarding with That HoarderPinterest: That HoarderYouTube: Overcome Compulsive Hoarding with That HoarderReddit: Overcome Compulsive Hoarding with That Hoarder subredditHelp out: Support this projectSponsor the podcast Subscribe to the podcast Subscribe to the podcast here
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    39 mins
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…It’s too soon to tell. But, until now, I haven’t come across anything that doesn’t feel condescending or patronising, but instead, this really feels like it actually might save me before I lose myself again.
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