This online forum is a self-help group for those who have a tendency to hoard.

Most ordinary disorganized people keep too many belongings. Hoarders have a much more serious problem than ordinary disorganized people. This site does not intend to deal with the usual problem of keeping too much. It site is only for those for whom hoarding is a very significant problem who want to change.

We encourage those who struggle with serious hoarding to do several things as a part of recovering from this disorder.

1. Learn all you can about the problem. Google web sites such as ChildrenofHoarders.com and locate books on the topic of hoarding or compulsive hoarding. Check out the authors Frost, Tolin, Steketee, or Neziroglu among others. The book STUFF by Frost and Steketee is very helpful. Education is the first step in change.

2. Cling to a big dose of hope and desire. There is a better life out there for you. Face your fears bravely.

3. Commit to a plan to declutter. If the problem is beyond your control, reach out to others. Quit bringing excess into the house. Stick with the plan. It will be hard. Or even frightening. But you can feel the fear and do it anyway. The booklet. I've Got to Get Rid of This Stuff by Sandra Felton on www.messies.com gives a lot of help in that area. You'll be glad you kept going.

4. Get outside help, whether medical doctors, mental health practitioners, professional organizers, or understanding friends or family. You alone can do it but you can't do it alone.

This site is for hoarders only. In your postings, please focus on changes you need to make in your attitudes, habits, and behaviors. Friends of hoarders should log on to http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Friends-of-Hoarders.

This group is sponsored by THE ORGANIZER LADYŽ, Sandra Felton founder of Messies Anonymous. Please visit my website for additional help and ideas, http://www.messies.com