Long-term community support key to preventing return to hoarding: Charities

Singapore's charities and experts emphasize that long-term community support is vital in preventing hoarders from returning to their destructive habits. About 60% of hoarding cases treated by three family service centres run by Montfort Care see a relapse of clutter within a year. While clearing away possessions is crucial, lasting change involves more than just that initial step. Patience, trust-building, and gradual decluttering are key elements.

In the case of 88-year-old Mdm Lee Poh Chen, accepting help took time. Her home was once filled with clutter and bed bugs. Volunteers initially spent three days simply befriending her, gaining her trust before offering assistance. The charity, part of a 28-organisation team, is currently managing around 20 active hoarding cases, with another 30 on its waiting list.

Assistant Director Jeannie Teo of Montfort Care explains that forceful or statutory approaches can make residents resistant. Understanding the personal value people attach to their belongings is essential. Dr Chris Tan Ze Jia from the Institute of Mental Health notes that clearing a home suddenly can cause a sense of loss, potentially triggering the person to hoard more items to fill the void.

Clinical psychologist Sarah Ann Lee highlights that objects may hold emotional significance, providing a sense of permanence and security. Keeping such items can help people cope with difficult emotions like anxiety and grief.

Building rapport with hoarders is crucial, as they may fear negative judgment and have strained relationships with others. Engaging them in conversations and understanding their lives can foster trust. Community involvement and understanding can help people avoid approaching hoarders defensively. AMKSS Social Move, which now sees a recurrence rate of less than 5% among cases it handles, emphasizes the importance of follow-ups and community engagement over simply clearing homes.