Disposophobia describes a pathological condition of compulsive hoarding. It is a form of mental illness, but it is still unclear whether it is an isolated disorder or rather a symptom of another condition, such as obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). You can deal with a disposophobic by trying to understand the emotional issues that accompany the condition.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Understanding a Disposophobic
Step 1. Distinguish "compulsive hoarders" from disposophobics
If the person uses the objects he collects or organizes them in a way that allows an accessible use of space, they can be considered collectors. However, disposophobics usually have enormous difficulty distinguishing between what they need and what is useless.
The disposophobia becomes overt when the subject is no longer able to distinguish the piles of objects accumulated from the furniture, entrances, bathrooms and kitchens. In this case, clutter can be dangerous, block emergency exits or cause fires or infestations
Step 2. Be aware that he may not realize he has a problem
Like other compulsive disorders, such as alcoholism or drug abuse, it can be difficult to treat a problem when the person does not recognize it.
Step 3. Advise him to contact a professional organizer
The reaction to this proposal can make you understand how the person perceives his chaotic home. If the person is persistent in accepting no help with reorganization, they may be showing signs of mental illness.
If you want to avoid a conflict with the disposophobic person, hiring a professional organizer allows you to maintain a neutral position
Step 4. Consider disposophobia based on the person's age
Diogenes syndrome is a condition that plagues many older people when they start suffering from dementia. This serious pathology is accompanied by malnutrition, neglect of the person, asociality and apathy.
- Diogenes syndrome is treated by providing the individual with social assistance.
- Elderly people with this condition may show resistance, but a doctor may be able to diagnose the signs of dementia after a routine visit.
Step 5. Remember that you cannot help the sick person alone
Disposophobia is a sign of more serious emotional problems, such as anxiety. Be sure to seek help from a specialist.
The person may need hospital treatment in severe cases
Method 2 of 3: How to Help a Disposophobic
Step 1. Don't throw it all away
When friends and family have to dispose of a disposophobic's items, the sick person may panic and begin accumulating items at a faster rate.
Step 2. Check with your family member often if you don't live together
It is important to establish a point when their condition becomes a health hazard. This is usually where children or parents intervene.
Step 3. Take this issue lightly
Explain your arguments by saying "I believe".
Try to say "I'm afraid these piles of objects block your way" or "I'm afraid a fire could break out."
Step 4. Ask if she needs help removing junk from the house
Make sure they have the situation under control if they express an intention to deal with it themselves. As with many OCD, they may try to take control in a situation where they would be helpless on their own.
Step 5. Organize a roadmap to clear the house a little at a time
If the person sees that the situation is becoming unbearable, then try to be patient and treat him as if he were a child, if the situation is not yet so catastrophic and refuses any kind of help.
Method 3 of 3: How to Help a Disposophobic
Step 1. Explain that something must be done if the person is in danger of compromising their health
In particular if one of the following situations occurs:
- Are there any parasites, bacteria or pets involved. Too much bacteria or feces can make the person sick.
- The exits are blocked. If a fire exit gets blocked by piles of objects, action must be taken.
- There is a risk of fire. If objects are piled close to a hearth or oven they must be removed.
- Remove pets if they are a source of health risk. The accumulation of feces or food residues is harmful to health. In the event of a compulsive accumulation of animals, immediate action must be taken by bringing the animals to an appropriate and safe place.
Step 2. Ask the person to see a psychiatrist experienced in OCD
Make an appointment if they refuse treatment and the situation is critical.
- Addressing the problem together could motivate him to change or he might feel shame and embarrassment.
- Some psychologists adopt cognitive behavioral therapy. This is particularly effective in the case of anxiety disorders because it can stimulate the brain to react to different patterns.
Step 3. Talk to your doctor before your appointment if you are concerned about dementia and personal neglect
The doctor may indicate treatment, refer the patient to a specialist, or prescribe medication.
In some cases, OCD is treated with antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors
Step 4. Address the problem regularly with the sick person
Let her know how her problem affects you, your neighbors, or friends.
- You should say "I think you have to intervene, because you don't live in a healthy environment."
- Tell him "I don't want to make decisions for you, but this is about health and safety."
Step 5. Offer to provide a caregiver if necessary
If the person is elderly or suffers from Diogenes Syndrome, this may be the only solution.
