Especially for those who live together, the significant other can feel like the hoarder's possessions are a “third wheel” in their relationship. They become jealous of the hoarder's possessions and feel like their partner is more attentive to and cares more about the possessions than the partner and their relationship.

How does hoarding affect your spouse?

Both the items and the act of hoarding interfere with your family's life, especially when inviting guests over. Your spouse suffers from depression, anxiety or attention deficit disorder. Your partner feels shame or embarrassment and will often refuse to discuss the hoarding. Trouble getting and staying organized.

What mental disorder do hoarders have?

Hoarding is a disorder that may be present on its own or as a symptom of another disorder. Those most often associated with hoarding are obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and depression.