“Hoarders” is an American documentary reality television series that has been captivating audiences since its debut on A&E on August 17, 2009. The show delves into the real-life struggles and treatment of individuals suffering from compulsive hoarding disorder, a mental health condition characterized by an inability to discard items due to an overwhelming sense of attachment or perceived value. This article aims to provide an overview of the show’s history, format, and impact on raising awareness about hoarding disorder.
Key Facts
- “Hoarders” is an American documentary reality television series that debuted on A&E on August 17, 2009.
- The show depicts the real-life struggles and treatment of people who suffer from compulsive hoarding disorder.
- The original run of the series concluded on February 4, 2013, after six seasons.
- After the original cancellation, Lifetime began airing “Update” episodes in 2014, which revisited hoarders from earlier seasons and showed their progress.
- This led to the production of a seventh season titled “Hoarders: Family Secrets,” which aired on Lifetime from May 28, 2015, to July 30, 2015.
- The program returned to A&E for subsequent seasons, with the eleventh season premiering on July 20, 2020, and the twelfth season premiering on March 22, 2021.
- As of now, the show is in its fifteenth season.
The Show’s History
“Hoarders” initially ran for six seasons on A&E, concluding on February 4, 2013. However, due to its popularity and the increasing recognition of hoarding disorder as a mental health issue, the show was revived by Lifetime in 2014 with a series of “Update” episodes. These episodes revisited hoarders from earlier seasons, showcasing their progress and the lasting impact of the show’s intervention.
The success of the “Update” episodes led to the production of a seventh season, titled “Hoarders: Family Secrets,” which aired on Lifetime in 2015. Subsequently, the show returned to A&E for subsequent seasons, with the eleventh season premiering in 2020 and the twelfth season in 2021. As of 2024, “Hoarders” is currently in its fifteenth season, continuing to shed light on the challenges and complexities of hoarding disorder.
Format and Approach
Each episode of “Hoarders” typically focuses on one or two individuals struggling with severe hoarding conditions. The show follows a structured format where professional organizers and psychologists work together to help the hoarders declutter their living spaces and address the underlying psychological factors contributing to their hoarding behavior.
The intervention process involves a thorough assessment of the hoarder’s living conditions, followed by a cleanup and decluttering session. The team works closely with the hoarders to identify and discard items that are no longer needed or pose a safety hazard. The show also provides emotional support and guidance to the hoarders as they confront their hoarding tendencies and work towards lasting change.
Impact and Significance
“Hoarders” has played a significant role in raising awareness about hoarding disorder, a condition that was previously misunderstood and often stigmatized. By showcasing the real-life experiences of hoarders, the show has helped to destigmatize the disorder and encourage individuals to seek help.
The show’s impact extends beyond raising awareness. It has also contributed to a better understanding of hoarding disorder among mental health professionals and the general public. The involvement of experts in the field has provided valuable insights into the causes, symptoms, and treatment of hoarding disorder, leading to more effective interventions and support services.
Conclusion
“Hoarders” is a groundbreaking television series that has shed light on the complexities of compulsive hoarding disorder. Through its long-running history, the show has helped to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and promote a better understanding of this mental health condition. The show’s continued success highlights the importance of addressing hoarding disorder and providing support to individuals struggling with this challenging condition.
References:
- “Hoarders (TV series)” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 16 January 2024, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hoarders_(TV_series).
- “Hoarders” TV Guide, TV Guide, 2024, www.tvguide.com/tvshows/hoarders/1030022495/.
- Oliver, David. “‘Hoarders’ Season 15: Hoarding disorder show back with new episodes.” USA TODAY, Gannett Satellite Information Network, LLC, 8 January 2024, www.usatoday.com/story/life/health-wellness/2024/01/08/hoarders-show-hoarding-disorder/72120845007/.
FAQs
Is “Hoarders” still on TV?
Yes, “Hoarders” is still on TV. As of 2024, the show is in its fifteenth season. New episodes continue to air on A&E.
Where can I watch “Hoarders”?
“Hoarders” airs on A&E. You can also watch full episodes on the A&E website and on streaming platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and YouTube TV.
What is “Hoarders” about?
“Hoarders” is a documentary reality television series that follows the lives of individuals struggling with compulsive hoarding disorder. The show documents their challenges, the impact of hoarding on their lives and relationships, and the process of decluttering and overcoming their hoarding tendencies with the help of professional organizers and psychologists.
How long has “Hoarders” been on TV?
“Hoarders” has been on TV since August 17, 2009. The show initially ran for six seasons on A&E before being revived by Lifetime in 2014 for a series of “Update” episodes. It returned to A&E for subsequent seasons, with the fifteenth season currently airing in 2024.
Who are the experts featured on “Hoarders”?
“Hoarders” features a team of professional organizers and psychologists who work with the hoarders to declutter their living spaces and address the underlying psychological factors contributing to their hoarding behavior. Some of the recurring experts include Dorothy Breininger, Matt Paxton, Dr. Robin Zasio, and Dr. David Tolin.
What is the format of each episode of “Hoarders”?
Each episode of “Hoarders” typically focuses on one or two individuals struggling with severe hoarding conditions. The show follows a structured format where professional organizers and psychologists work together to help the hoarders declutter their living spaces and address the underlying psychological factors contributing to their hoarding behavior. The intervention process involves a thorough assessment of the hoarder’s living conditions, followed by a cleanup and decluttering session.
What impact has “Hoarders” had?
“Hoarders” has played a significant role in raising awareness about hoarding disorder, a condition that was previously misunderstood and often stigmatized. By showcasing the real-life experiences of hoarders, the show has helped to destigmatize the disorder and encourage individuals to seek help. The show has also contributed to a better understanding of hoarding disorder among mental health professionals and the general public, leading to more effective interventions and support services.
Where can I find more information about hoarding disorder?
There are several resources available for individuals seeking more information about hoarding disorder. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) provides comprehensive information on the condition, including symptoms, causes, and treatment options. The International Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Foundation (IOCDF) also offers resources and support for individuals with hoarding disorder and their families.