Loneliness and hoarding with Vassia Sarantopoulou: build human connections and combat hoarding-related shame

Subscribe to the podcast: https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/subscribe

Episode transcript: http://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/

Today, I look at the link between loneliness and hoarding behaviour with special guest Vassia Sarantopoulou, an expert psychologist and relationship counsellor. Come on a thought-provoking journey as Vassia and I discuss the complexities of loneliness, and practical steps for combating the shame associated with hoarding. There's the deep impact of societal expectations on emotional expression and emphasise the importance of forming genuine human connections for those affected by hoarding.

From identifying warning signs of loneliness to exploring the link between trauma, grief, and hoarding, this episode offers insights into the struggles faced by individuals dealing with compulsive hoarding and the loneliness that often accompanies it.

Vassia shares effective strategies for overcoming loneliness, reaching out for support, and finding ways to rebuild connections when you hoard.

This episode is a candid and compassionate exploration of the intersection between loneliness and hoarding, offering support for those seeking to break the cycle.

Loneliness and Its Impact
Stigma and Misconceptions Surrounding Loneliness
Two Layers of Loneliness: Normal Feeling vs. Deeper Sense of Loneliness
Common Causes of Loneliness
Overcoming the Fear of Rejection and Making New Friends
Difficulties in Discussing Personal Struggles with Friends
Importance of Creating Safe Spaces for Discussing Grief and Negative Emotions
Combatting Shame and Overcoming Self-Judgment
Steps to Combat Shame Associated with Hoarding Behaviour
Impact of Societal Expectations on Emotional Expression
Building Human Connections and Combatting Feelings of Shame Associated with Hoarding Behaviour
Practical Steps to Build Human Connections and Combat Feelings of Shame Associated with Hoarding Behaviour
Addressing Shame and Overcoming Self-Imposed Judgment Related to Hoarding
Gradual Approach to Disclosing Hoarding in Relationships
Practical Advice and Resources
Purpose of Social Activities: Engaging in Activities to Reduce Pressure and Stress
Building Relationships and Disclosing Hoarding: Choosing the Right Moment and Managing Expectations
Taking a Gradual Approach to Disclosing Hoarding in Relationships
Impact of Hoarding Symptoms on Loneliness
Warning Signs of Loneliness and Isolation
Mental and Physical Health Effects of Loneliness
Seeking Harmful or Unhealthy Relationships Due to Loneliness
The Contribution of Trauma, Grief, and Loss to Hoarding Behaviour and Loneliness
Dual layers of loneliness lead to isolation.
Loneliness stems from disconnecting from ourselves.
Impact of loneliness mental and physical health.
Loneliness and trauma can lead to hoarding.
Reconnect with old friends, join social groups.
Healing involves selective sharing and seeking help.
Guide, allow time, ask, express, connect authentically.
Layered loneliness: valuing connections, deeper isolation, worthiness doubts, fear, rationalisation.
Relying solely on objects for emotional needs
Neglecting physical appearance
Changes in sleep
Loss of interest in activities
Hopelessness or helplessness.
Traumatic experiences can lead to hoarding and social isolation as a protective mechanism.
People in healing choose carefully who to share with

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.