COMPULSIVE HOARDING SYNDROME: CLINICAL ASPECTS AND THER-APEUTIC IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE IN COMMUNITY

The aim of the present study was to provide an overview of the compulsive hoarding syndrome, including manifestations of the problem, comorbidity and diagnostic issues, treatment approaches, epidemiology, course, and demographic features of compulsive hoarding. Material and Method: A literature review was conducted on both Greek and English languages, through Pubmed, Scopus, Science Direct and Google Scholar databases, using the key-words: "compulsive hoarding", "treatment" "community". Results: Compulsive hoarding is a disabling psychological disorder characterized by acquisition, clutter, excessive collection of items, and inability to discard. Associated with increased risk of injury due to the severe clutter and unsanitary conditions, social isolation and disorganization, compulsive hoarding can be devastating for individuals, family members, and communities. Treatment may be affected by the accuracy of the community nurse’s understanding of this complex disorder and educating individual hoarders, family and community members and other health care professionals as the effects of hoarding often extend outside the home. Conclusions: Compulsive hoarding is a serious public health problem that poses significant health and safety risks for individuals, families, and communities and has a profound effect on public health in terms of poor physical health, occupational impairment, and health care service involvement. Community health nurses play a unique role in the identification and care of hoarders