Is hoarding a mental health condition?

Yes. Hoarding disorder is a recognised diagnosis in both the DSM-5 and ICD-11. It is distinct from collecting and requires specialist treatment.

Can hoarding be treated?

Yes. CBT adapted for hoarding disorder has been shown to produce meaningful improvements in acquiring, discarding, and clutter levels. Treatment is typically longer-term, often 20-30 sessions.

Is hoarding related to OCD?

Hoarding disorder was previously classified under OCD but is now recognised as a separate condition. However, some hoarding is driven by OCD-type obsessional fears, and the two conditions can co-occur.

Hoarding Disorder

Specialist hoarding disorder treatment at Cardinal Clinic, Windsor. Evidence-based CBT for compulsive acquiring and difficulty discarding.

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Clinically reviewed by Dr Jane Perera | Last reviewed: 1 March 2026

Hoarding disorder is a persistent difficulty discarding possessions, regardless of their actual value, resulting in clutter that significantly impairs living spaces and daily functioning. At Cardinal Clinic, we provide specialist assessment and treatment for hoarding disorder, using evidence-based approaches that address both the behaviour and the underlying psychological factors that maintain it.

Conditions We Treat

We provide specialist assessment and treatment for the full range of conditions in this area, including:

Compulsive Acquiring

Excessive acquiring of items — through buying, collecting, or saving free items — beyond what is needed or can be accommodated.

Difficulty Discarding

Intense distress at the thought of discarding possessions, even those with no practical or sentimental value.

Hoarding with OCD

Hoarding behaviour driven by obsessional fears about harm, contamination, or waste.

Hoarding with Depression

Depression-related hoarding, where low motivation and energy prevent organisation and decluttering.

Animal Hoarding

Accumulating more animals than one can properly care for, with significant welfare and health consequences.

Digital Hoarding

Compulsive saving of digital files, emails, and data to the point of functional impairment.

Our Approach to Treatment

We combine consultant-led psychiatric care with evidence-based psychotherapy to create an integrated and effective treatment plan. Our goal is not just to alleviate symptoms, but to empower you with the understanding and tools to manage your condition in the long term.

CBT for Hoarding

Evidence-based cognitive-behavioural therapy specifically adapted for hoarding disorder.

Motivational Enhancement

Building motivation for change and addressing ambivalence about letting go of possessions.

Skills Training

Practical skills for organising, categorising, and making decisions about possessions.

Treatment of Co-occurring Conditions

Addressing depression, OCD, ADHD, or anxiety that may be contributing to hoarding behaviour.

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Hoarding disorder is not laziness or messiness. It is a genuine clinical condition driven by complex psychological factors. With specialist treatment, patients can learn to let go and reclaim their living spaces.

Dr Jane Perera

Medical Director & Consultant Psychiatrist

Find the Right Level of Care

The right level of care depends on the severity of your condition, your personal circumstances, and your goals. Our clinical team will guide you to the most appropriate option.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to take the first step?

Our admissions team is available 7 days a week, 8am–10pm. All enquiries are completely confidential.

Enquire Confidentially +44 (0)1753 869755