1 minute read
Hoarder or Collector?
The Hoarder
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Collect things because they have to. Like to have large quantities of certain items. Collect things they do not put on display or take care of and these items are often hidden or scattered randomly. Save things they never will use. Their environment is disorganized and some area may not be usable. They do not have people come into their homes even if something needs to be repaired. Making decisions about things can be physically painful and causes high levels of anxiety. Experience high level of gratification/euphoria from buying something or getting something for free. Their attachment to an item is very strong and the item can take on an animated persona.
The Collector
A collector, collects because of a love of an object; the history, the value, the uniqueness, the rarity, the design. A collector has a strategy for collecting and the collection. A collector attractively displays their collections in an orderly manner. The collections are maintained and visitors are drawn to look at them. The collector likes to talk about their collection in social situations. They attend meetings or conventions with other collectors and will engage in trading items with other collectors. Collectors can let go of an item to make room for a new one.
If the collector has more items than can be attractively or safely displayed, they will pack them carefully and store in a protective container.
A collectors’ space is generally organized, each room in the house is used for its intended purpose.
There are great self help books that can support you, the hoarder, or you, the loved one of a hoarder. See my recommendations below.
