Hoarding is a serious disorder that makes enjoying life impossible. In many instances, help is needed to deal with the collection of belongings that have accumulated even as the individual receives therapy. How do you know that it’s time to schedule a hoarding clean up and try to restore some semblance of order to the space? Here are four signs that indicate action is needed now.
Paths are Needed to Get Through the Home
Hoarders find ways to cope with what is happening around them. One of them is to assume all is well as long as it’s still possible to move through the house. This is sometimes accomplished by creating paths leading from one room to the next. While the debris may reach all the way to the ceiling on either side, the presence of paths serves as an indicator that things aren’t so bad.
The reality is that paths are dangerous. The sense of false security can quickly be swept away if a need for emergency help occurred and the responders found it difficult to remove the individual for transport to a hospital. If the house has been reduced to a series of paths, it’s time for a complete clean out.
Some Rooms Can’t Be Accessed at All
Things may even be worse, in that some parts of the house can no longer be accessed at all. This may begin with areas like a basement and an attic. Next may be spaces that are not used daily, such as spare bedrooms. Over time, it may get to the point that the hoarder is basically living in tiny parts of a kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom.
At this juncture, there’s no doubt that a clean out is the only way to go. Along with the danger to the individual, there’s a good chance that the massive amounts of things stacked up in all the spaces is creating structural problems. Without action to correct the issue, the house may eventually be a total loss.
The Odor is Significant
Hoarders don’t just hang onto things that don’t degrade. In many instances, spoiled food may be present. Pets who pass away may be found somewhere in the debris. The state of the house certainly attracts rats and other vermin that leave waste everywhere. Even the individual living in the house may become less concerned about personal hygiene and not bathe for days on end.
While the worst of the odor may be contained within the house, it may also begin to seep outdoors. At this point, denying the need for a hoarding clean up is fruitless. Anyone who comes near the door will know there’s something wrong.
Collections of Belongings are Spilling Out Onto the Grounds
Hoarders are capable of keeping everything inside for a time. Eventually, they begin to use carports, patios, and other outside areas to create piles of belongings. They may or may not cover them with tarps. In any event, it becomes obvious that there’s a problem that needs addressing. If therapy is not already happening, it should begin immediately. The clean up won’t be far behind.
Recovering from a hoarding disorder is possible. It takes time, effort, and a willingness to part with things that will never be used again. If you or a loved one is dealing with hoarding, get help and then call a local service to set up a clean out. Once it’s done, enjoying life once again will be a lot easier.
