Hover for more info.
People with a lot of clutter often feel shame and embarrassment about the state of their home. Using language that shows judgment will make it harder to work together. Be especially mindful of negative language about the person’s possessions, like “junk” or “trash”.
The term has a lot of stigma, and most people are offended by it.
It’s more helpful to use the same words that your loved one uses to describe themselves. For example, if they call themselves a collector, or a saver, than it is better to use those terms.
Research shows that arguing causes the person to be more convinced of their own position.
If you notice progress, no matter how small, be sure to let your loved one know that you noticed, and congratulate them. People can feel overwhelmed by the task of sorting their home, and may feel as though the little changes don’t make a difference.
As a family member or loved one of someone who struggles with hoarding, you may find that you need support for your own mental health. Below is a list of agencies that provide counselling services in Wellington and Guelph.
Please note: we do not recommend or endorse any service. This list is meant to provide a starting point from which to explore options.
Note: Your primary care provider must be a member of the local Family Health Team to access counselling services at the Family Health Team. Please speak to your doctor’s office to find out if they are a member of a FHT or for more information.
Family Health Teams in Guelph Wellington include:
Guelph Family Health Team: https://www.guelphfht.com/
Upper Grand Family Health Team: https://uppergrandfht.org/
Mount Forest Family Health Team: http://www.mountforestfht.com/
East Wellington Family Health Team: https://www.ewfht.ca/
Minto-Mapleton Family Health Team: http://www.mmfht.ca
Note: You must be a client of the Guelph Community Health Centre in order to access counselling services there.
If you are in crisis, call anytime: 1-844-437-3247
You may also have access to counselling services through your place of employment. Many employers offer Employee Assistance Programs, or cover fee-for-service counselling through group benefits program.
You may also have access to counselling services through your place of employment. Many employers offer Employee Assistance Programs, or cover fee-for-service counselling through group benefits program.
A website with links to free webinars for family, loved ones and caregivers of people with hoarding.
© 2019 All rights reserved