OCD and holding on to things please help - Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Message Board

jojo9515 · 08-17-2007, 02:37 PM

I know I have hear that people with OCD have trouble throwing things away like getting rid of clothes that you can't ware or new papers and so on. I have a hard time getting rid of some things, and I can't stand clutter,so I just puting things in my out side building which is full now. I guess it time to buy another building. Does anyone have any kind of suggestion on how to deal with this? I don't have any trouble getting rid of new paper, but I know I do hold on to some things that should be throw away. I have 4 out side building, and the clutter in them is getting to me. I would also like to know for sure is this normal for people with OCD?

OCDHATER · 08-23-2007, 09:51 PM

YES! I do the same thing. Not quite to that degree but I have a hard time getting rid of clothes, even though I know I dont wear them and wont. I think, maybe it will come back in style or I might want to wear it. Also, I hold on to all paperwork... I dont like to throw things away b/c someday I might need it. It drives my husband crazy. Something that helps me is going to my moms house. She has a lot of clutter and doesnt get rid of things b/c "one of us kids might want it someday" she thinks. Eveytime I leave there i say to myself, i am not going to be like that and it drives me to clean and throw things out, if only for a little bit. But, I would say its the OCD.

seaturtle · 08-23-2007, 11:35 PM

Is there someone who could come over and help you throw out some things?

HOw about a therapist - do you see one? I think CBT might help a lot, or letting go of a few things at a time.

Good luck with this!