Afleveringen
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In this episode, I'm joined by Jasmine Sleigh, professional declutterer, as we discuss the daunting first steps of reaching out for professional help in tackling hoarding. Jasmine shares insights into what prompts individuals to make that initial call and the courage it takes, alongside practical strategies for working with organisers. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation on overcoming fears and building trust for positive change in managing clutter.
Inviting Professional HelpJasmine explains common motivators for people to seek helpSpecific incidents or realisations prompting actionExample scenarios like misplaced items or repairsThe Initial Call to a Professional OrganiserWhat typically prompts the call for professional helpJasmine's perspective on admiration for those who reach outThe importance of taking calls seriously and with empathyEngaging with Potential ClientsApproach to initial conversations with potential clientsBuilding trust and understanding the client's situationEstablishing client needs and potential outcomesAssessing the Client’s HomeHow Jasmine gathers information about the client's homeImportance of assessing without judgmentConsidering client interaction with their items and living spaceProfessional Organiser-Client DynamicsRespecting clients’ preferences and leading decisionsBalancing professional insight with client autonomyWorking towards the client's goals and prioritiesProcess from Inquiry to Working TogetherSteps from initial inquiry to in-home visitManaging client expectations and realitiesEnsuring client comfort and readinessIn-Home Visit ExperienceJasmine’s mindset and approach during a home visitAvoiding overwhelm and maintaining professionalismLogistical and emotional assessments of the client’s environmentJudgment and Perception in the Decluttering ProcessBeing conscious of non-verbal cues and judgments perceived by clientsStrategies for maintaining client comfort and trustDetermining Fit and ReferralsAssessing fit between client and professional organiserReferring clients to other professionals when appropriateDealing with Client Motivations and External PressuresAddressing clients seeking help due to external pressuresFinding a balance between urgency and client readinessEnsuring Positive Outcomes and Encouraging Future EngagementCreating a sense of achievement for the clientFostering positive experiences to encourage future self-helpChallenges and Responsibilities of Professional OrganisersEthical responsibilities and managing client expectationsBuilding trust for effective collaborationPersonal Reflections and Habits for Mental HealthJasmine shares personal habits that support her mental healthReflection on the importance of reading and self-care activities -
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In today's episode, Dr Jan Eppingstall and I explore how to create a ventral vagal space or touchstone to help us regulate our emotions, drawing inspiration from the work of Deb Dana and polyvagal theory. We look at how we can find or create areas within our home, and objects we can use on the go, that provide safety and connection, allowing us to feel grounded and manage overwhelming moments. We'll look at the emotional significance of objects, avoiding those that glower at us, and instead creating spaces filled with comfort and warmth.
Creating Your Own Ventral Vagal SpacePermission Slip segmentDiscussion about photographic portraitsEmotions associated with the portraitsObjects as MemoriesSignificant memories vs. happy memoriesHarriet Impey's notion of "glowering" objectsEmotional Impact of ObjectsPortraits as a reminder of insecurityVentral Vagal Space ConceptUse of Deb Dana's work in polyvagal theoryConnection between emotional safety and physical spaceExplanation of Polyvagal TheoryBreakdown of the nervous system's stages: ventral vagal, sympathetic, and dorsal vagalRelevance of Polyvagal Theory to HoardingTrauma and its relation to object attachmentChallenges of decision-making in a cluttered environmentDeb Dana's Home Analogy - Comparison of home systems to body's autonomic systemsIntegration needed for a "full life" and connectionPractical Application of Ventral Vagal SpacesCreating nourishing home spacesAbundanceImportance of TouchstonesExplanation and significance of touchstonesExamples of personal or portable calming itemsCreating a Ventral Vagal Space or TouchstoneStarting small by identifying objects that bring safety and contentmentUsing childhood memories to influence current safe spacesApplications and BenefitsUsing the space for emotional regulationTouchstones as portable reminders of safetyRecognising objects that already serve as touchstonesImportance of awareness and observation in identifying touchstonesUtilising Resources for GroundingExamples of resources: lava lamps, messages, certain soundsStrategies for implementing these resources in daily life -
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In today's episode, I'm sharing nine strategies that are making a real difference in managing my hoarding behaviour and curbing over-acquiring right now. From tricks to overcome perfectionism and opening a daunting pile of letters to finding support in unexpected places and even leveraging a cute app, these tactics are moving me forward.
Join me as I lay out what's working, in the hope it sparks a few ideas for you too.
Opening 100 unopened lettersOvercoming fear and procrastinationSorting coins and dealing with obsolete itemsDecision-making process in letting goRecognising dehoarding as self-kindness, not punishmentBenefits of having a friend who knows the hoarding situationManaging perfectionism and doing things imperfectlyUsing the "hummingbird method" for tasksIntroduction and use of the Finch app for self-careUsing virtual assistants for task remindersSuccess with excessive mug collection and food cupboardsImpact of the documentary "Buy Now" on purchasing habitsChanging relationship with the inner criticOvercoming Mail Anxiety MilestoneKindness, Not ChoreEmbrace Imperfection for Future GrowthHands-Free Task ManagementBest-before dates at the start of the yearConsumerism DocumentaryCurbing Instant Gratification -
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In today's episode, I chat with Harriet Impey about the complex process of clearing out her parents' cluttered house after their deaths. From unusual family rules to emotional ties with objects, we cover how Harriet navigated the challenges of sorting belongings, her family dynamics, and the personal growth she experienced along the way navigating emotional landscapes.
We also talk about whether her parents hoarded and how their relationship with their stuff has affected her relationship with her stuff. Plus, we discuss the importance of letting go, embracing mindfulness, and the transformative power of therapy.
Trailer: Where Dragons Live: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w2ARgzYZei8 Growing up in a cluttered house and realisation later in lifeHarriet's mother's attachment to objects and possible hoardingInfluence of family habits on personal behaviourRelationships and Emotional AwarenessHarriet's journey towards emotional awareness and accepting imperfectionsImportance of recognising complex feelingsManaging fear of arguments and expressing angerUsing Objects Instead of Saving ThemHarriet's family preference for keeping items "too special to use"Transition to using these items with joyFamily Dynamics and Emotional SuppressionDifferences in attitudes towards possessions among Harriet and her siblingsParents' contrasting approaches to objectsImpact of her mother's anxiety on household rules and behaviorClearing Out Parents' HomeHarriet's responsibility in sorting through parental belongingsEmotional impact of dealing with deceased person's possessionsReference to "Swedish Death Cleaning"Importance of considerate item managementTherapy and Self-ReflectionHarriet's 20 years of therapy and its impactThe influence of therapy on personal happiness and self-awarenessLearning to be less rigid in lifeManaging and Letting Go of BelongingsEvaluating the necessity of keeping certain belongingsMindfulness and Mental HealthMindful self-compassion and ACTThe filming of "Where Dragons Live"The dual charm and burden of the family homePersonal Experiences and Family Impact -
Come to a Dehoarding Accountability Zoom Session: http://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/ticketSubscribe to the podcast: https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/subscribePodcast show notes, links and transcript: https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/podcast-ep-171-hi-ren-the-song-that-dramatically-changed-my-approach-to-my-inner-critic/
In this episode, I discuss Ren's song "Hi Ren," a mind-blowing exploration of inner conflict that blows apart ideas about the balance between darkness and light within us all. We'll unpack Ren's introspective lyrics, which explore themes like mental illness and creativity, and consider his take on life and what we can learn from it. I share how this song's impact has resonated with my own journey in dealing with grief and the inner critic.
Watch the original song by Ren here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s_nc1IVoMxc&pp=ygUGaGkgcmVu
Impact of "Hi Ren" by Ren Gill on my lifeRelation to grief and managing the inner criticThemes of Strength and HopeInner strength and resilience amidst challengesInner ConflictIllness and psychological battlesThe pendulum metaphor, advocating acceptanceUniversal evil and inner conflictDark side as defensive rather than malevolentChaos and division as intrinsic parts of selfIdentification with 'hope' indicating a shift towards optimismLife as a DanceComplexity and humanity over supernatural perfectionEpisode contains sensitive topics including swearing, suicide, and mental distressSong AnalysisExploration of mental illness and creativity strugglesConnection to personal inner critic experiencesDialogue between Ren's dark and light personasDiscussion of inner conflict and personal growthInternal struggle about personal achievementsDark side's criticism of Ren’s insecuritiesRen’s music achieving 43 million YouTube viewsDark side as a symbol of temptation and negativityHost's parallel with personal inner criticsSteve Chapman's TED talk on inner criticsEmotional impact of "Hi Ren" song on the hostDark Ren attacks out of fear and insecurity.Inner critic misconstrues protection as help.Inner critic always undermines self-confidence, futile.Ren's song conveys hope's profound impact.Embrace change; it's an evolving balance.Struggling makes us human, imperfect, and relatable. -
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Exploring impermanence, this episode highlights how these concepts can help us understand hoarding behaviours and the illusion of control. Looking at impermanence also includes addressing mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, coping with change, ambiguity and uncertainty. Yikes!
Embracing ImpermanencePsychological benefits of impermanenceConcept of "glimmers"Interplay between mindfulness and impermanenceFernández-Campos paper on non-judgmental attentionCritique of commercial distortion of mindfulnessJon Kabat-Zinn’s definition of mindfulnessPractical mindfulness exercisesMindfulness in Hoarding ContextPsychological dimensions and security from possessionsEnvironmental Responsibility vs. HoardingPersonal insights on waste and possessionsUncertainty, Ambiguity, and Impermanence in HoardingTolerance of uncertainty and ambiguityEmbracing impermanence to reduce distressAcceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and HoardingPsychological flexibility and acceptance of constant changeACT's promotion of resilienceUse of ACT and Compassion Focused TherapyRadical AcceptanceSteps to practice radical acceptanceAwareness and curiosity toward challengesVocalising Thoughts and JournalingBenefits of speaking thoughts aloudBuddhist Concepts and ImpermanenceAwareness and acceptance in BuddhismTara Brach’s qualities of awarenessPersonal Reflections on Change and RelationshipsResisting and coming to terms with change"Permission Slip" SegmentConcept of Control and Suffering in HoardingDesire for permanence leading to hoarding behaviourJustifications for Keeping ItemsAvoiding unnecessary consumptionEthical decision-making when buyingIncreasing Awareness and Understanding Personal MotivationsPromoting curiosity through being without something -
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In today's episode, I ask Dr Chia-Ying Chou about the complex interplay between grief and hoarding. We'll explore how emotions like grief can trigger hoarding behaviour, the role an inner critic plays, and learn all about compassion-focused therapy – including why it’s so much easier to offer compassion than to receive it. The timing is perfect, coinciding with National Grief Awareness Week in the UK.
Grief and Hoarding DiscussionChia-Ying Chou discusses the non-direct link between grief and hoarding based on clinical experience.Factors such as resistance to grieving and avoiding vulnerability exacerbate hoarding.Grief can trigger hoarding behaviour to maintain a sense of control and avoid confronting loss.Host shares personal experiences of how grief intensified their hoarding behaviour.Grief and PossessionsPeople keep deceased loved ones' belongings as a way to preserve their existence.Chou mentions the ambiguous preservation of loved ones through items.Anxiety and resistance to facing grief make organising or discarding possessions difficult.Complex Emotions in GriefHost reflects on the unexpected emotions in grief, like anger or impatience.Therapeutic Strategies for Grief and HoardingChou compares addressing resistance to grief to preparing for a challenging hike.Emphasis on resourcing, preparing mentally, and gathering support.Suggestions for a "baby-step" approach to facing fears and emotions.Inner Critic and GriefHost discusses journey with their inner critic and finding new approaches to handle it.Chou highlights how internal criticism is often related to grief and missed opportunities.Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)Integration of Western psychotherapy and Buddhist philosophy for addressing psychological challenges.Difficulty in receiving or directing compassion towards oneself.Connections Between Hoarding, Trauma, and GriefPatterns of loss, either tangible or intangible, among those who hoard.Episode ties with National Grief Awareness Week in the UK.Cultivating Compassionate CompanionsIdea of cultivating an imaginary compassionate companion for emotional support.Emphasis on emotions being a part of persona, not the true self.Emotions and Grief ManagementPacing yourself.Chou recommends creating space for emotions to surface naturally.Encouragement to welcome emotions as a creative process in internal space.Examine fears and take small steps to engage with feelings. -
Get your 2025 decluttering inspiration calendar: http://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/2025 Come to a Dehoarding Accountability Zoom Session: http://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/ticketSubscribe to the podcast: https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/subscribePodcast show notes, links and transcript: https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/podcast-ep-168-hoarding-healing-and-the-art-of-kintsugi-with-dr-jan-eppingstall-of-stuffology/
Today, I'm with Dr Jan Eppingstall, a Melbourne-based counsellor, about the fascinating art of kintsugi and how it connects with hoarding and trauma recovery. We explore how this Japanese tradition of mending broken pottery with gold has lessons for us about the therapeutic journey and the beauty in imperfection. We also discuss how these concepts apply to overcoming perfectionism in hoarding and highlight the empowering process of creating, destroying, and rebuilding.
Introduction to Kintsugi and Dr. Jan EppingstallExplanation of kintsugi as a Japanese art form of repairing objects with gold.Kintsugi and the connection to recovery from trauma.Kintsugi as a Metaphor for HealingImportance of acknowledging the process of healing without oversimplification.Reference to Amy Price's article about kintsugi symbolising care and time.Discussion of Tomas Navarro's book and the importance of action in healing.Psychological and Therapeutic ImplicationsMetaphor in therapy for expressing complex emotions.Application of kintsugi philosophy in mental health contexts, including trauma recovery.Relation to Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), acceptance, and resilience.The real-life application of acceptance and self-compassion.Creation, Destruction, and RebuildingCreate, destroy and recreate art as part of personal healing.Parallel with kintsugi in wabi sabi / finding beauty in imperfection.Personal Empowerment and ResilienceEmpowerment through courage and resilience using scars as a metaphor.Resonance with Leonard CohenIdea of imperfection as a means for transformation.Contrasts with Modern ConsumerismKintsugi and wabi sabi's focus on the beauty of imperfection and impermanence.Reference to Beth Kempton's book on creating serene, beautiful spaces.Addressing Perfectionism and HoardingApplication of kintsugi principles to address perfectionism in hoarding.Exploration of creating, destroying, and rebuilding as a therapeutic exercise."Wreck This Journal" to overcome artistic perfectionism. -
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In this episode, I propose ten experiments to help customise your decluttering journey, focusing on individual preferences to uncover what strategies work best in your home. These experiments encourage a flexible approach to dehoarding. It's all about tailoring your methods to fit your style and your personality, ensuring that decluttering becomes a more intuitive and effective process.
Approaching Tasks as ExperimentsTasks viewed as experiments inspired by CBTReduction of perfectionist pressureEmphasis on personal differences and no right or wrong answersTesting different time slots for tasksEffectiveness of beginning the day with decluttering"Swallowing the frog" conceptLong-term goals vs. short-term goals for motivationExperimentation and Adjusting Over TimePeriodic repetition of experiments to adapt to changesUse of structured time frames and spontaneous urges to declutterExperimenting with personal preferences for initiating actionOptions such as music, TV, silence, social interaction, or media consumptionUse of podcast as motivational toolUpbeat music playlistGroup accountability sessions via Zoom for shared motivationProductivity based on to-do list specificityDecluttering strategies: by space, type of item, or item within a spaceHandling Difficult CategoriesApproach to emotionally challenging itemsTailoring strategy based on personal readinessConsistency in DehoardingShort daily durations vs. longer weekly sessionsFinding the best fit based on routineTime ConstraintsSetting strict vs. flexible schedulesCombination of structured and spontaneous effortsPersonalising Decluttering and Productivity MethodsFocus on individual preferences and method effectiveness -
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In today's episode, I talk about the strategies I've been trying to address over-acquisition and manage my finances, from savings pots to practising 'just-in-time' shopping. I explain how these methods, alongside mindfully resisting impulse buys and more, are helping me reduce clutter.
Personal Financial ManagementDedicated accounts with savings pots for various expenses like glasses, car repairs, and gifts.Spending limits.Evaluating the necessity of purchases.Reflecting on past financial struggles.The tendency to overprepare due to fear of scarcity.The impact of hoarding on life, such as emotional pain from bereavements.The challenge of trusting that resources will be available when needed.Shopping Habits and StrategiesEmphasising rationality in shopping.The "just in time" shopping approach to combat over-acquiring.Mindful shopping techniquesChecking existing supplies before shopping.Using shopping lists with flexible categories.Resisting urge-driven purchases like discounts.Mindful Financial PracticesExploring alternative uses for money beyond impulse buys.Prioritising spending on quality experiences.Past Financial Hardship and Emotional ImpactPast experiences of financial hardship leading to anxiety and hoarding.Reflecting on the emotional impact from periods like the COVID-19 pandemic.Personal Growth and Overcoming BeliefsEncouragement to try despite potential failures. -
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Avoiding the chaos of complex idea capture systems is vital for preventing distraction and overwhelm. Today, I'm sharing practical strategies for transitioning from idea capture to action, breaking down large tasks into manageable subtasks and exploring tools like Google Tasks and voice assistants for prioritisation and organisation. Plus, I reflect on my own long-term struggle with to-do lists and how to experiment with different approaches to find a system that suits your needs.
Simplifying Idea CaptureAvoid complex systems to prevent distraction and overwhelm.Focus on simple, streamlined methods for capturing ideas.Set dedicated idea capture times to minimise distractions.Organising Idea Capture MaterialsEnsure materials and tools are easily accessible.Utilise technology for effortless idea capture using voice assistants.Transitioning from Idea Capture to ActionPrioritise tasks based on urgency, impact, or personal goals.Structure and prioritise tasks.Break down large tasks into smaller, manageable subtasks.Combining Digital and Non-Digital MethodsUse written to-do lists to complement digital systems for immediate tasks.Essential Elements for an Effective SystemThinker's Notebook's five elements: omnipresence, efficiency, organisation, security, and offline thinking.Exploring Digital and Non-Digital ToolsPopular digital tools: Evernote, OneNote, ToodleDo, Todoist, Trello, Taiga.io, Google Calendar, Outlook Calendar, Google Tasks.Non-digital methods: scraps of paper, notebooks, preprinted planners, bullet journals, mind maps.Personalising the Capture MethodImportance of selecting a method suited to personal preferences and technical comfort level.Experimentation with different approaches.Two-Step Strategy for Idea CaptureCombine digital or portable capture methods with comprehensive home organisation tools.Mind Mapping for SubtasksUse mind maps to break down tasks, providing a visual representation.Realistic Time ManagementDecide on timings based on deadlines and personal flexibility.Visual Task ManagementTrack progress and prioritise tasks using visual tools like checklists or kanban boards.Prioritisation and Breaking Down TasksOrganise tasks by priority for easier management.Divide large tasks into smaller parts for simplification.Timely Task ExecutionBe realistic about time required for tasks and accommodate flexibility.Psychological Boost from CompletionMark tasks as completed for a dopamine boost and visual progress tracking.Adapting Idea Capture SystemsExperiment with various methods to find an effective system that suits personal needs and goals. -
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In this episode, I'm joined by Dr Jan Eppingstall, a counsellor with a PhD in hoarding, to discuss the phenomenon of digital hoarding, where people accumulate excessive digital items.
We'll explore the emotional responses to losing digital content, the organisational and environmental implications of digital clutter, and strategies for managing our ever-growing digital lives.
From the nostalgic pull of old photos to the overwhelming influx of emails, this conversation reveals the surprising similarities between physical and digital hoarding.
Introduction to Digital HoardingDefinition of digital hoardingComparison with physical hoarding, highlighting similar stress, anxiety, and attachment.Emotional Responses to Digital LossNon-hoarders experiencing emotions like anger and anxiety over losing digital items.Technological Advancements and Digital StorageThe proliferation of digital content creation, especially digital photos.Impact of technology on creating and storing digital content.Historical context of storage limitations versus current capabilities.Broader Implications of Digital HoardingExtending beyond photos and videos to emails, subscriptions, and digital accounts.Cybersecurity risks and financial costs associated with digital hoarding.Reasons we retain digital content.Emotional Attachment and Digital DataEmotional ties to digital items like photos and documents.Reflecting identity and memory triggers in digital possessions.Digital Organisation StrategiesHost's impeccably organised digital life contrasted with a cluttered home.Tiago Forte's PARA method for prioritising digital items.Inbox Zero and maintaining an organised email setup.Challenges of Digital ClutterVolume over efficiency: issues accessing necessary information despite organised files.Parallels between digital and physical hoarding behaviours.Digital Inefficiency and Environmental ImpactWasted time, reduced focus, and productivity issues due to digital clutter.Significant carbon footprint of data centres and environmental concerns.Strategies for Managing Digital ClutterReducing digital intake by unsubscribing from unnecessary emails and content.Advice on stopping excessive bookmarking and managing browser tabs.Importance of setting up email filters to streamline email management.Creating physical keepsakes from special digital photos for meaningful interaction.Permission Slip SegmentDiscussion on evaluating difficult-to-discard items for sentimental or practical reasons. -
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In today's episode of That Hoarder: Overcome Compulsive Hoarding podcast, I'm joined by Kendra Adachi, author of "The Plan, Manage Your Time Like a Lazy Genius," as we explore self-compassion and realistic productivity. We'll discuss cultural differences in self-trust, the pitfalls of traditional planning, and how small, manageable steps can lead to meaningful progress. Kendra's insights challenge societal expectations and underscore the importance of kindness and contentment in our daily lives.
Self-Trust and Societal InfluencesCultural differences in self-trust between men and womenWomen's challenges with self-trustUnderstanding systemic influencesEncouragement of kindness and acceptance towards oneselfSocietal Expectations and Productivity PressureCritique of the "hustle" culture and pressure for excellenceContentment as opposed to constant optimisationKindness to oneself as an alternative to relentless improvementResistance to the idea of contentmentContentment and Self-CompassionContentment not the same as giving upDefining contentment as awareness and appreciation of the presentSelf-compassion as a holistic life perspectiveContentment and making mistakesHoarding and Mindset ShiftsProblem with future-focused thinkingImportance of prioritising what matters to usShifting mindset towards valuing fewer things and creating spaceKinder approach to oneself and questioning what we have lose by trying contentmentIntegration vs. GreatnessEmbracing integration over achieving greatnessHonouring emotions and practicing self-kindnessGoal setting challenges and adopting flexible approachesShrinking priorities to manage overwhelmPlanning and Productivity ChallengesDiscussion on why many struggle with planning and productivityUnrealistic expectations from productivity expertsInternalisation of failure for unmet expectationsDisparity in authorship vs. readership of time management booksThe Lazy Genius Way and Practical StrategiesIntroduction to concepts from "The Lazy Genius Way"Principles of "going in the right order" (naming what matters, calming the chaos, trusting oneself)Encouragement of smaller, manageable stepsPotential for meaningful change despite societal pressures -
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In today's episode, I chat with Jo Cavalot, a compassionate inquiry practitioner and coach, about tackling executive dysfunction through a unique concept called "fibble", designed to help those struggling with focus and organisation. Jo shares her insights into treating internal parts with kindness, her own journey of recovery, and how she co-created Fibble as a tool to understand and manage executive function challenges. We explore the importance of personalised support in overcoming obstacles, and Jo offers a special discount for listeners interested in her work.
Importance of a compassionate approachInternal family systems and parts work.Viewing internal parts as friends with individual needs.Differentiating exploratory sessions from physical organisation tasks.Executive Dysfunction and 'Fibble' ConceptChallenges of executive dysfunction, specifically among people who hoard.Use of the 'fibble' acronym: Frustrated, Inadequate, Baffled, Befuddled, Lacking, and Exhausted.Fibble as a practical toolJo Cavalot's experience with alcoholismParallel between Jo's alcohol experience and hoarding.Emotional challenges and non-linear nature of recovery.Emphasis on self-awareness and self-compassion.Jo's significant life changes, like moving to Spain and involvement in the Camino de Santiago.Motivation through personal recovery and organisational skills.Involvement and motivation in Hoarding Disorders UK.Compassionate Inquiry, Based on Dr. Gabor Mate's work, focusing on trauma's impact.Positive impacts on clients with hoarding behaviours and related trauma.Key Challenges and Strengths in Addressing OrganisationCommon challenges: sustained attention, organisation, self-activation, planning, and prioritising.Creative problem-solving as a strength.Flexible thinking and stress tolerance.Use of a questionnaire assessing executive functioning across environments.Understanding and leveraging diverse personal strengths.Varying self-activation for personal vs. others' tasks.Goal Setting and PersonalisationPersonalised tools over generic advice.Introduction of the Ikigai concept in goal setting.Use of the fibble questionnaire for personal assessment and support.Understanding and Addressing Underlying CausesIdentifying trauma responses and underlying causes.Adjusting expectations based on life circumstances.Holistic and trauma-informed support for personal challenges. -
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In this episode, I’m joined by Steve Chapman, an artist and coach, to talk about working creatively with your inner critic. We talk about understanding this inner voice as a misguided protector rather than an enemy and explore creative approaches like drawing or dancing with your critic to better engage with it. However sceptical you may be about it, listen to us talk about finding compassion for that voice in your head and how art can be a therapeutic ally in your journey. Even if, like me, you cannot draw!
Steve Chapman: artist, writer, speaker, coach, with a background in Gestalt psychology, improv theatre, coaching, and art therapy.Discussion on creativity, imperfection, being stuck, shame, and the inner critic.Struggles with a harsh inner critic for years.Perspective shift influenced by the song "Hi Ren"Insights on the Inner CriticInner critics act as misguided protectors from early childhood.An approach to understand inner critics rather than fight them.Creative Approach to the Inner CriticDrawing or creative engagement to externalise and personify the inner critic.Small creative experiments to better understand the inner critic.The therapeutic nature of experimenting with art.Inner Critic & Self-CompassionDeveloping a compassionate relationship with the inner critic.Thich Nhat Hanh on nurturing inner energy.Dealing with worry through acceptance and self-compassion.Art as a method to engage with emotions and inner criticResonates with others and serves as a therapeutic tool.Shame & VulnerabilityShame thrives in secrecy; exposing it diminishes its power.Importance of bringing shame to light as discussed by Brene Brown.Comfort and DiscomfortFinding a balance between comfort and distress.Advocates for taking small steps toward addressing discomfort.Discussing mental health openly demonstrates personal growth and reduced stigma.Working with different materials for creative exploration.Workshops begin without set goals to allow creativity to flourish.Dealing with Inner CriticsAwareness of inner critics as part of being human and lifelong process.Engaging with the inner critic in a playful rather than adversarial way.Therapeutic Work and Community SupportValue of in-depth therapeutic work and community support in managing inner critique.Artistic Abilities and PerceptionsSocietal pressures influence perception of artistic ability.Chapman aims to inspire and counter feelings of inadequacy.Role of Continuous Exploration in ArtArt viewed as an ongoing process rather than a definitive product.Tuning into emotions and body sensations beyond verbal communication. -
Come to a Dehoarding Accountability Zoom Session: http://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/ticketSubscribe to the podcast: https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/subscribePodcast show notes, links and transcript: http://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/
In this episode, I explore how the change of seasons can inspire and motivate dehoarding efforts, with autumn in the northern hemisphere and spring in the southern hemisphere being upon us. Drawing on traditions like harvest festivals and spring cleaning, we'll discuss how nature’s rhythms can support our journey toward a more organised home. Plus, personal insights on managing the emotional challenges of letting go and tips for embracing seasonal transitions as opportunities for growth.
Seasonal Influence on DehoardingAutumn MotivationMixed feelings: beauty vs. precursor to winterHarvest festivals: gratitude and inspiration for giving and declutteringNesting instincts as a motivational tool for organizingSpring MotivationSymbolism of renewal and hopeGrowth and change as motivators for overcoming hoarding disorderSpring cleaning tradition as an opportunity for new beginningsEmotional Aspects of DeclutteringAcknowledge and understand feelings like overwhelm, anxiety, confusion, and fearUse emotions to gain self-insight and understand attachment to itemsSeek support from therapists, friends, family, or professional organisersPractical Steps for DehoardingAssess possessions when transitioning between seasonsEvaluate practical use of items like blankets and coatsDecluttering inspired by seasonal changesFocus on small areas to avoid overwhelmSmall, consistent changes over dramatic onesSet realistic goals for home improvements by New YearCommunity and SupportEngage in dehoarding accountability sessions for communal supportDonating items to reduce unnecessary storageAssess what you want for your home as the year end approachesAiming for improvement, maintenance, or worsened state?Set intentionsWalking, observing nature, and journalingCreating Rituals and Redefining ComfortSuggest creating rituals in tune with seasonal changes to aid declutteringRedefine comfort by reducing clutter rather than accumulating moreHighlight the importance of a comfortable, decluttered space for winter -
Come to a Dehoarding Accountability Zoom Session: http://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/ticket
Subscribe to the podcast: https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/subscribe
Podcast show notes, links and transcript: http://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/
On this episode, I share my experience from being a guest on Death, Sex & Money with Anna Sale. Then I dig into the idea of wanting things but still choosing not to have them and how it applies to various aspects of life, especially for those of us dealing with hoarding disorder. I’ll discuss how the disorder can distort our perception of items, leading to irrational attachments. I look at how desires often change over time, the unhealthy attachments formed for identity, comfort, or security, and how fear of regret can hinder the decluttering process.
Choosing Not to Have Desired ItemsDistortion of item perception in hoarding disorderTemporary nature of desiresSafety and clutter concernsEmotional and Irrational AttachmentsUnderstanding and challenging emotional attachmentsExploring reasons for keeping or acquiring itemsAddressing “irrational” beliefsDealing with fear of regretJoy from finding things often surpasses regret (Jasmine Sleigh's insight)Managing regret is possibleDecision-making with clutter in mindNot Retaining Items for OthersIt's not our responsibility to keep items for othersPrioritising personal and familial well-beingSetting boundaries regarding others' potential desiresFeeling loss, fear, sadness, and nostalgiaAcknowledgment and validation of these feelingsCommunicating fears and emotionsRecognising and challenging irrational thoughts and feelingsCelebrating small victories without adding more clutterLiberation and freedom from letting goMisinterpreting laziness as anxietyAnxious sloth and decreased productivity -
Come to a Dehoarding Accountability Zoom Session: http://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/ticket
Subscribe to the podcast: https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/subscribe
Podcast show notes, links and transcript: http://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/
In today’s episode, I’m chatting with Dr. Jan Eppingstall, a Melbourne-based counsellor, about what it means to take a trauma-informed approach to hoarding disorder. Stick around as we break down why understanding trauma is crucial for effective support and treatment.
Trauma-informed approaches to understanding and treating hoardingImportance of understanding trauma's impactConcerns about wellbeing inquiries without adequate support preparationCollaboration in Trauma-Informed CarePractical Implementation for Non-Therapy Roles**Incorporate trauma-informed principlesSensitivity to potential triggersMisconceptions and CommunicationFear factor surrounding trauma and its treatmentDetailed trauma disclosure unnecessary for effective supportClient Autonomy and Professional BoundariesRespecting clients' communication preferencesRetraumatisation in HoardingHarm of forced clearances and strangers touching possessionsNegative impact of language and actions on hoardersRespectful Support PracticesBuilding TrustImportance of building trust before intervening in a hoarder's spaceEnsuring professionals genuinely practice trauma-informed careOver-explaining as a stress responseBroad approach of trauma-informed careFactors influencing trauma perceptionTrauma DefinitionTrauma and HoardingCommonality of trauma in hoarding historiesA supportive framework rather than a treatment modelFive Pillars of Trauma-Informed CareAssuming trauma backgrounds in hoarding behaviour clientsLoss of Control in TraumaTrauma involves loss of control; care pillars help restore itTracking and managing nervous system responsesImportance of recognising client-specific signsTerm misuse by minimally trauma-informed trained professionalsDangers of Misleading Trauma Informed ClaimsProper understanding of trauma to avoid harmNon-therapists adopting trauma-informed principlesImportance of feeling present and calm during therapyTeaching clients to feel safe and groundedClear Boundaries in TherapyTrauma Types and Responses**Variability of traumaExplanation of retraumatisationManaging Retraumatisation - Laat meer zien
