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Supporting a Partner Who Collects: Finding Balance and Harmony

  • Writer: jodeserrano
    jodeserrano
  • Oct 7
  • 1 min read
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Living with a partner who collects or hoards requires patience, understanding, and strategic approaches. Here's how to address the situation while maintaining a healthy relationship.

Understand the Psychology

Before attempting changes, recognise that collecting or hoarding often stems from:

  • Emotional attachments to objects

  • Fear of waste or loss

  • Anxiety about future needs

  • Sentimental connections

  • Perfectionist tendencies

This understanding helps guide more compassionate and effective solutions.

Establish Boundaries and Zones

Create clear agreements about:

  • Designated spaces for collections

  • Shared living areas that must remain clutter-free

  • Storage limits for different categories

  • Regular review periods for collections

  • Safety and accessibility requirements

Seek Professional Support

Consider working with:

  • Professional Organisers who specialise in collections

  • Therapists who understand hoarding tendencies

  • Support groups for families of collectors

  • Professional appraisers for valuable collections

Remember that change takes time and patience.


 
 
 

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