Karen's Tips - Hoarding UK

Karen's Tips For Families Who Have the Problem of Compulsive Hoarding (Karen is the wife of a man who compulsively hoards):

Only take action openly to avoid mistrust.
Explain clearly beforehand what you plan to do, and why.
Take the lead from the sufferer, and capitalise on any opportunity to make progress.
Persevere, set reasonable targets, and acknowledge progress. Ask the sufferer to help you because you have a problem.
Find out about local services and sources of support. Use your own coping strategies.
Keep mentally and physically fit. Set good examples yourself. Challenge the problem, not the person.
Avoid the emotional roundabout, blackmail, excuses and procrastination.
Discuss it on neutral ground, possibly with someone independent present.
If you cannot express yourself face to face, write a letter.
Take responsibility, and encourage the sufferer to do so.