Any diagnosed germophobes or hoarders on this forum?

[NatureLover]

Yes, they are. I feel completely and urgently overwhelmed and panicky if for some reason I can't wash or sanitise my hands straight away. It's like an intense need that blots out everything else.

@tyme 

[tyme]

You are so so right there @NatureLover . I don't think I'll ever forget those feelings. It's pretty unbelieveable that things are different now... I think I'm still in awe because I don't understand @NatureLover 

I hope things improve for you. I sure remember how hard it was.

[Dimity]

Just acknowledging your past and present struggles @NatureLover @tyme .

I used to keep bags, and newspapers, and buy multicoloured stationery, and lots of books. I've shed most now except the books. I had very little as a child and most of what I did have was thrown out when I was 14 or 15 when we moved. 

Hoarding can be horrible and life-threatening when extreme and I think it goes with profound sense of hopelessness and helplessness and lack of self-esteem. But I've been told it's a lifestyle choice. It's not. It's an illness deserving care and intervention and recognising the poor soul whose self-inflicted torrnent echoes profound trauma. Here I'm advocating not so much for myself as for someone I know. 

@NatureLover you've not done nothing but water and laundry. You've been diligent at times when feeling better and achieved heaps - you've told me when you've had successful days. I'm so sorry you feel burnt out but perhaps your resilience is better than you give yourself credit for. Your sticking to your volunteer job despite management changes is admirable. 

Forgive me for saying all this - I'm probably a bit overwrought and overtired.

Take care.

[tyme]

You are RIGHT... @Dimity . Hoarding is NOT a lifestyle choice. I know that for sure. In a way, as mentioned earlier, it's a need for control when life is so out of control.... and that looks different for everybody. 

I hear you @Dimity @NatureLover 

Let's just say we are all doing our best to cope and that can look different for everyone.

[Eve7]

Just dropping by with some love @NatureLover  I am sorry for not being around much.

💚💚💚

[Clawde]

Love the Title ….. so much more to go….. The title of this Forum is keeping me going…. Up to gave away …. Now wood like to bury the rest to have a treasure hunt for fun….. what do think…. 🤔

[Dimity]

Hello @Clawde 

Do you mean you'd like to have a treasure hunt in your own possessions? I feel like that sometimes when I'm decluttering 

[NatureLover]

So beautiful to see you, dear @Eve7 💛 Thank you so much for popping in ❤

I am sorry for not being around much for you too. Sending care and ❤ xx

[NatureLover]

Thanks for your encouragement I appreciate it, @Dimity 🙂 Nothing to forgive! 

(By the way, my new boss seems lovely)

I'm very sorry most of your things were thrown out when you were a teenager. That sounds traumatic to me. 😥

Any news on when you can go home? 

[Dimity]

I'm so glad your new boss seems nice and good to work with @NatureLover .

I feel weak and wobbly but my mind is clearer. I'll be reviewed tomorrow re when I can go home. 

Can your gp or psychologist suggest anything to help you overcome the burnout?