Hoarding can impact a person's physical and mental health, as well as their relationships with others. If you have a loved one who is struggling with this mental health condition, there are ways you can support them in finding a healthier lifestyle, and we at Bio-One are here to help. In this blog, we will discuss four ways to help your loved ones find possible hoarding disorder treatment paths to recovery.
Develop a Support System
One of the most effective ways to help your loved one overcome hoarding is to develop a support system. This may include medical professionals, mental health professionals, and family members or friends. By working together, you can create a plan that addresses your loved one's unique needs and helps them develop healthy habits. It's important to remember that hoarding is a complex issue, and it may take time and patience to see progress.
Encourage Healthy Habits
Hoarding often results in unhealthy living conditions, which can lead to physical and mental health problems. Encouraging your loved one to develop healthy habits such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and good hygiene can help improve their overall well-being. Here is a list of things you can recommend to a loved one:
- Take a walk each day
- Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables
- Make sure all food is properly stored and refrigerated
- Clean up clutter regularly
- Get adequate sleep every night
Provide and Promote Coping Strategies for Anxiety or Depression
Hoarding can often be exacerbated by underlying issues such as anxiety or depression. It's important to help your loved one create coping strategies for these issues in order to reduce the urge to hoard. Check out the hoarding disorder treatment options available in your area.
Reassure that Patience is Key
It's important to remember that overcoming hoarding is a process, and it often involves setbacks along the way. It's crucial to be patient and understanding with your loved one, even when it's challenging. Offering a listening ear and a shoulder to lean on can make a big difference. Remember to acknowledge and celebrate even small achievements, as they can build confidence and encourage progress!
Seek professional hoarding cleanup services
Hoarding can leave a home in dangerous conditions, including mold, mildew, pest infestations, and potential safety hazards. It's important to seek professional hoarding cleanup services to address these issues and ensure the safety of your loved ones.
Helping your loved one find a healthier lifestyle after hoarding can be a challenging process, but it's definitely not impossible. Developing a support system, encouraging healthy habits, seeking professional hoarding treatment options, and being patient and understanding are crucial steps in the right direction. At Bio-One, we provide compassionate and efficient cleanup and restoration services that not only clean the home but also address the underlying issues that contribute to hoarding.
Our very own Michele Amoranto is a certified Mental Health First Aid from the National Council for Mental Wellbeing, so you can contact us without hesitation!
