A Work in Progress

By Darcy Thiel

I have been enjoying working as volunteer organizer with my lady and plowing through the neatening we’re trying to do.

We got one section reorganized and if you could see the before and after, you might thing, Wow, that’s a huge difference. Or you could think, Big deal. It’s just small area. I guess both statements are true.

We got one section reorganized and if you could see the before and after, you might think, Wow, that’s a huge difference. Or you could think, Big deal. It’s just one small area. I guess both statements are true.

“I think people become completely unaware of how their environment has affected them.”

This job has gotten me thinking more about the dynamics around hoarding vs. disorganization. Usually when I go to a typical home where things have gotten a little out of hand, folks are just overwhelmed and don’t know where to start. Once we get going, they pick up momentum and catch on to my method. Next time I go there, I find they have been working on their own and making great progress.  Most people love feeling more free and less encumbered.

With hoarding, or on your way to being one, it seems to be a different dynamic. It usually develops over many, many years. I think people become completely unaware of how their environment has affected them. This lovely lady I work with sits quietly when I get excited about the finished section. I will tell her how great it looks and she will say calmly, “Whatever you say. I thought it was fine before.”  And I believe she really feels that way.

I am hoping with time she will develop some intrinsic motivation. If she doesn’t, I know what will happen. Things will just return to the way they were, which will put her at risk with the building managers. Keep your fingers crossed and say your prayers for her.

Darcy Thiel, MA is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in New York state. To learn more about her work, click here.