Hoarding
http://thedianerehmshow.org/shows/2011-07-13/hoarding
We have all come across the friend or family member that collects piles of old fabric, newspaper clippings, or even buttons. It might seem harmless enough. But for some, hoarding these often valueless items takes over their lives and their homes. The most well known example of the tragic consequences of hoarding was the Collyer brothers, who died in their new york home under a literal mountain of junk. But they story is just one of many. Life management consultant Dr. Darnita Payden and psychologist Elspeth Bell discuss this surprisingly common disorder.
Guests
Darnita Payden
Life Management Specialist
Elspeth Bell
Psychologist, Behavior Therapy Center of Greater Washington
Randy Frost
Professor at Smith College and author of "Stuff: Compulsive Hoarding and the Meaning of Things"
Comments
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Hi, Ca0ss,
I just noticed the corner of Brandywine (right by WAMU) the other night with its roughly easily 6 or 8 loaded shopping carts. I wonder how the person moves them all, or maybe they just stay put there.
Have you ever talked to the person? It might be a good way to learn more about them.
your program mentioned montgomery county several times. i know where it is because i grew up near baltimore. i think your listeners would have liked to know that it is in maryland just north of washington, dc. i believe (but don't know first hand) that it is very suburban and than many residents work in dc.
listeners also need to know how to find out more info online and how to find qualified help.
I'm not sure if the current radio show that I am listening to here in Utah is a re-broadcast...but my comment is that if counseling was much less expensive and thus more readily available...many hoarders like myself that realize they have a problem...would seek help. My insurance only pays for 3 sessions per "problem" that the person is seeking help for. I can't afford private pay...so I keep reading material. Of course that doesn't help; it's a difficult problem to tackle alone...probably impossible to tackle alone.
"C.J."