#199 Layers on layers: the many layers of hoarding disorder, from stuff to shame to identity cover art

#199 Layers on layers: the many layers of hoarding disorder, from stuff to shame to identity

#199 Layers on layers: the many layers of hoarding disorder, from stuff to shame to identity

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 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 is far more complicated than just clutter - there are layers upon layers, from the visible stacks of possessions to the hidden emotional weight, old identities, and tangled feelings of shame and secrecy. In this episode, I talk through what these layers actually look like, why they make healing and recovery so tough, and how recognising them can help us start to move forward. It’s about giving an honest look at how hoarding really is, and offering a bit of encouragement and understanding for anyone living with it. Layers in Hoarding DisorderExplanation of the concept of "layers"Recognition of complexity in hoarding and recoveryImportance of understanding layers for self-awareness and changePhysical Layers of StuffSorting belongings as an “archaeological dig”Stories and histories attached to different layers of possessionsPractical observations about layers:Top layer: Most recent or most-used itemsMiddle layers: Mixture of older and neglected items, representing different life periodsBottom layers: Emotionally complex, broken, or “buried” itemsHow physical layers inform decluttering decisionsEmotional Layers in HoardingSurface emotions: annoyance, sadness, irritabilityDeeper emotions: anxiety, fear of making wrong choicesCore emotions: grief, trauma, feelings of unworthiness or inadequacyGuilt, anger, disappointment, and how these mix togetherThe idea of layering additional distress (as per Carolyn Spring)Differentiating unavoidable pain from added self-blameFocusing on agency in managing additional emotional layersCascading Layers: When Problems Create More ProblemsExamples of problems compounding:Physical issues (like leaks) made worse due to hoardingSocial isolation leading to more depression and worsened hoardingAdministrative issues (unpaid bills leading to fines)Cycle of increasing overwhelm and powerlessnessCompassion for oneself in recognising these cyclesLayers of IdentityComplexity of personal identity in relation to hoardingPublic vs. private identitiesFormer, current, and future self-identitiesThe impact of possessions on perceived identity (e.g., holding onto teaching materials)The difference between authentic identity and identity tied to objectsLayers of TimeHolding onto items as connections to the pastPresent consequences of hoarding: overwhelm, panic, paralysisFuture-oriented worries: fear of needing items laterSpaces/items “frozen in time,” keeping people anchored to the pastReflection on who we want to be now and in the futureLayers of Shame and SecrecyShame and secrecy as invisible yet heavy “layers”How secrecy takes energy and perpetuates shameImpact of secrecy on relationships and daily interactionsBarriers to seeking help caused by shame and secrecyThe process of being more open about hoardingNavigating and Addressing the LayersEmphasis on not needing to resolve all layers at onceThe process of recognising and being patient with layersImportance of support systems and therapyIdentifying helpful (protective or wise) layers versus harmful onesThemes of self-compassion and validation for the complexity of the experienceRejecting simplistic advice to “just get rid of stuff”The process is about understanding and self-acceptanceEncouragement to approach oneself with patience and compassionClosing remarks and reminders about podcast resources and support options Links Carolyn SpringCome 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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