#206 Finding connection and community when hoarding feels isolating

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 disorder can feel deeply isolating, and finding genuine connection isn’t always straightforward. In this episode, I talk about building community - both through hoarding-specific peer groups, online spaces, as well as simply nurturing friendships outside the home. I share practical ways to reconnect, set boundaries, and remind yourself that you deserve care and companionship, whatever your home looks like. The Relationship Between Hoarding and IsolationHow hoarding and isolation often accompany each otherFeelings of shame and concern about being misunderstoodSecrecy around hoarding, even from friendsImpact of loneliness on motivation and self-worthThe fundamental human need for connectionFinding Community: Hoarding-Specific SupportBenefits of speaking with others who “get” hoardingRelief and authenticity in hoarding-focused communitiesMisunderstandings and stigma around hoarding in general societyShared language and understanding in dedicated groupsTypes of Hoarding CommunitiesPeer support groups (both for people who hoard and for their loved ones)Differences between in-person and online groupsDehoarding accountability Zoom groups run by the hostTherapy groups led by professionalsOnline forums, social media groups, and subredditsChoosing a Support Group and Overcoming BarriersThe process of finding the right group for your needsNot all groups will fit; trial and error is normalCommon barriers: fear of judgment, privacy concerns, and feeling overwhelmedExploring online versus in-person options based on comfort and accessManaging triggers and emotional challenges when joining a groupBroadening Community Beyond HoardingImportance of connection outside of the hoarding contextHow hoarding can lead to progressive social isolationWays to set boundaries while still building relationshipsAlternative Sources of Community & ConnectionJoining hobby or interest-based groups (gardening, book clubs, crafts, etc.)Attending classes and workshops (in-person or online)Volunteering for shared causes and the benefits it offersEngaging in outdoor activity groups for physical and mental healthInvolvement in faith communities (acknowledging varied experiences)Nurturing and Rekindling FriendshipsThe value of maintaining and nurturing friendshipsStrategies for reconnecting with old friends (acknowledging awkwardness)Personal anecdotes demonstrating successful reconnectionMaintaining and Deepening Existing FriendshipsCreative ways of keeping in touch (memes, postcards, regular outings)Showing care and interest without inviting people into your homeImportance of honesty about personal limitationsNavigating difficult moments with friends through gentle outreachBuilding New FriendshipsThe importance of patience and consistent small effortsTransitioning from casual acquaintance to meaningful connectionReciprocity and mutual engagement as key to growing relationshipsNatural pace of friendship developmentThe Value of Self-CompassionBeing a good friend to yourself while seeking social connectionsAvoiding self-blame and catastrophic thinkingRecognising your own worth despite challenges related to hoardingTaking Small Steps Toward ConnectionEncouragement to take actionable, manageable steps to build communityCelebrating small efforts toward greater connectionRealistic expectations about gradual progressSuggestions for relevant previous podcast episodes on loneliness, accountability, and community Links Podcast ep 200: Things I wish I’d known: a letter to Episode One MePodcast ep 130: Loneliness and hoarding with Vassia Sarantopoulou: build human connections and combat hoarding-related shamePodcast ep 138: The Accountability Effect: Accountability, encouragement and mutual support when tackling hoarding and dehoardingCome 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: @[e-mail]: @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