Obsessive-compulsive disorder and hoarding are manifestations of the lingering effect of trauma. It’s important to note that trauma alters brain chemistry and, thus, has an impactful physical effect on the mind and body. This can trigger maladaptive behaviors that serve as an unhealthy way to avoid loneliness, loss, lack of control or feelings of being caught off guard or being unprepared. OCD and hoarding disorders develop when we need to feel in control and protected. Collecting things can begin to serve as a way to feel safe and secure when meaningful relationships with others aren’t available.
Many people turn to inanimate objects in the post-trauma state. Hoarding develops when the procurement of things, oftentimes meaningless and valueless, becomes an uncontrollable obsession that is used as an unhealthy coping mechanism to feel in control. It can also include hoarding pets.
This disorder is similar to kleptomania in that the feel-good chemicals are associated with gathering. However, hoarders do not generally steal items like kleptomaniacs too, although they may pick them from the trash. Shopping addiction is similar to both as well in that the “high” is experienced in the purchasing process. All of these disorders involve a compulsive-impulsive component and, thus, they are somewhat related to obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Trauma can trigger underlying mental health conditions and/or lead to the onset of these disorders. Compulsion is common when trauma has caused lost control, or feelings of being unloved and alone. Acquiring things serves as a fleeting way to fill a far-too-deep void. Yet, in the long run, compulsive and impulsive behaviors tend to bring about detrimental effects that can impact multiple aspects of one’s life.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to seek professional help. Individual and group therapy, as well a twelve step programs and other resources are available. You are never alone.