Peace of Mind Organizing

Janine, I was just trying to figure out how to send you the Today show link! I have been aware that the program was debuting. I saw another hoarder related episode on “Obsessed” which I believe is also on A&E. Fascinating stuff and a valuable service people like you and Geralin perform. I am getting my DVR ready!

Marita Perlak August 14, 2009 11:43 AM

Janine, it’s always flattering to hear that colleagues approve of the way things are being handled, especially delicate situations, so thank you for your nice comments.

I too remain hopeful that Hoarders, Obsessed and Intervention help improve the lives of those who participate.

While the subjects of these 3 A & E Television shows give a lot they receive a lot too; it’s a meaningful first step for those who need and want help. Participating in the show is not a cure. As you know, hoarding is a difficult situation which requires therapy and long-term commitment in addition to categorizing and organizing one’s belongings.

Geralin

Geralin Thomas August 15, 2009 05:16 AM

Congratulations on your program and best wishes to the patients. CBT is certainly important to treating hoarding and other issues, I believe it should be used in conjunction with appropriate meds. Hoarding isn’t directly related to OCD but the sufferer may have other problems such as bipolar that aggravate the matter.

This is off topic, but many of the current intervention reality or fiction programs ignore the fact that people self medicate with alcohol or drugs to treat depression or bipolar or even hoarding for all I know. Treating the underlying problems with CBT as well as the proper meds is more important than 12 step meetings in my opinion. Using Topamax or Naltrexone among others can block the pleasure sensors drugs or alcohol stimulate.

Maybe it’s worth a try to give Topamax to hoarders as a test. I have taken it to stop drinking with phenomenal results. I am also being treated for bipolar. ssfully

Earl September 7, 2009 11:32 PM