#206 Finding connection and community when hoarding feels isolating

Come to a Dehoarding Accountability Zoom Session: http://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/ticket Subscribe to the podcast: https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/subscribe Podcast 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 Isolation How hoarding and isolation often accompany each other Feelings of shame and concern about being misunderstood Secrecy around hoarding, even from friends Impact of loneliness on motivation and self-worth The fundamental human need for connection Finding Community: Hoarding-Specific Support Benefits of speaking with others who “get” hoarding Relief and authenticity in hoarding-focused communities Misunderstandings and stigma around hoarding in general society Shared language and understanding in dedicated groups Types of Hoarding Communities Peer support groups (both for people who hoard and for their loved ones) Differences between in-person and online groups Dehoarding accountability Zoom groups run by the host Therapy groups led by professionals Online forums, social media groups, and subreddits Choosing a Support Group and Overcoming Barriers The process of finding the right group for your needs Not all groups will fit; trial and error is normal Common barriers: fear of judgment, privacy concerns, and feeling overwhelmed Exploring online versus in-person options based on comfort and access Managing triggers and emotional challenges when joining a group Broadening Community Beyond Hoarding Importance of connection outside of the hoarding context How hoarding can lead to progressive social isolation Ways to set boundaries while still building relationships Alternative Sources of Community & Connection Joining 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 offers Engaging in outdoor activity groups for physical and mental health Involvement in faith communities (acknowledging varied experiences) Nurturing and Rekindling Friendships The value of maintaining and nurturing friendships Strategies for reconnecting with old friends (acknowledging awkwardness) Personal anecdotes demonstrating successful reconnection Maintaining and Deepening Existing Friendships Creative ways of keeping in touch (memes, postcards, regular outings) Showing care and interest without inviting people into your home Importance of honesty about personal limitations Navigating difficult moments with friends through gentle outreach Building New Friendships The importance of patience and consistent small efforts Transitioning from casual acquaintance to meaningful connection Reciprocity and mutual engagement as key to growing relationships Natural pace of friendship development The Value of Self-Compassion Being a good friend to yourself while seeking social connections Avoiding self-blame and catastrophic thinking Recognising your own worth despite challenges related to hoarding Taking Small Steps Toward Connection Encouragement to take actionable, manageable steps to build community Celebrating small efforts toward greater connection Realistic expectations about gradual progress Suggestions 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 Me Podcast ep 130: Loneliness and hoarding with Vassia Sarantopoulou: build human connections and combat hoarding-related shame Podcast ep 138: The Accountability Effect: Accountability, encouragement and mutual support when tackling hoarding and dehoarding Come to a Dehoarding Accountability Zoom session: Accountability Booking Form Website: Overcome Compulsive Hoarding Become a Dehoarding Darling Submit a topic for the podcast to cover Questions to ask when dehoarding: https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/podquestions Instagram: @thathoarderpodcast Twitter: @ThatHoarder Mastodon: @[email protected] TikTok: @thathoarderpodcast Facebook: Overcome Compulsive Hoarding with That Hoarder Pinterest: That Hoarder YouTube: Overcome Compulsive Hoarding with That Hoarder Reddit: Overcome Compulsive Hoarding with That Hoarder subreddit Help out: Support this project Sponsor the podcast Subscribe to the podcast Subscribe to the podcast here