It used to be that people with a lot of stuff were called “pack rats.” Today, we also wonder if they’re “hoarders.”

Way beyond eccentricity, hoarding is now officially classified as a mental disorder by the American Psychiatric Association. So how can you tell if your friend or family member may be a hoarder, and not just a collector? Here are a few signs:

1.      1.  Clutter takes up—or takes over—several rooms in the house, including the living space. Often times, hoarders have only a path available through rooms in which they live, and not just a cluttered junk room, garage, or other storage spaces.

2.      2.  Throwing away possessions leads to severe anxiety. Many times, even things that are regarded as garbage by other people will trigger this anxiety.

3.      3.  One’s possessions cause embarrassment or discomfort when they’re seen by other people. Collectors are proud of their collections. Hoarders are not.

4.      4.  The house is dirty, including everything from dust to mold to rotting food and even animal feces.

If you’re concerned someone you know may be a hoarder, consult a professional to help with a diagnosis. Companies today even specialize in clean-up related to hoarding. For guidance with insurance implications, contact your Virginia Farm Bureau Insurance agent.