What is the mechanism of action of this treatment?

The most common treatments for Hoarding Disorder, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and facilitated self-help groups, work by addressing the underlying cognitive and emotional factors that contribute to hoarding behaviors. CBT helps patients identify and challenge distorted beliefs about possessions, develop better decision-making skills, and reduce the anxiety associated with discarding items. Facilitated self-help groups provide structured support and guidance, allowing patients to share experiences and strategies in a supportive environment, which can enhance motivation and adherence to treatment. These mechanisms are crucial for Hoarding Disorder patients as they help break the cycle of hoarding, improve daily functioning, and enhance overall quality of life.

What side effects are associated with this type of intervention?

Common treatments for Hoarding Disorder, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and pharmacotherapy, generally have minimal side effects. CBT, including facilitated self-help groups, may cause temporary emotional discomfort as individuals confront their hoarding behaviors and associated anxieties. Pharmacotherapy, often involving selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can have side effects such as nausea, insomnia, and sexual dysfunction. Overall, the side effects of these treatments are typically manageable and should be discussed with a healthcare provider.

What other types of research exist?

Promising, novel alternatives to Facilitated Self-Help Group for Hoarding Disorder patients in 2024 include: 1) Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with a focus on hoarding-specific techniques, 2) Digital CBT platforms that offer remote, structured therapy sessions, 3) Pharmacotherapy options such as SSRIs or other medications that target underlying anxiety and depression, 4) Virtual Reality (VR) therapy to simulate decluttering and reduce anxiety, and 5) Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) for severe, treatment-resistant cases.

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Self-Help Group for Hoarding Disorder

Q: What prior FDA approvals exist?

As of now, there are no specific FDA-approved medications for the treatment of Hoarding Disorder. Treatment typically involves cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which can be delivered in various formats, including individual therapy and facilitated self-help groups. These self-help groups provide structured support and guidance, similar to the approach being studied in the trial. While certain medications like SSRIs (e.g., fluvoxamine) have been used off-label to manage symptoms associated with hoarding, their efficacy specifically for hoarding disorder has not led to FDA approval for this indication.

N/A

Waitlist Available

Led By Kiara R Timpano, PhD

Research Sponsored by University of Miami

Eligibility Criteria Checklist

Specific guidelines that determine who can or cannot participate in a clinical trial

Must have

Clinically relevant symptoms of hoarding disorder

Be older than 18 years old

Must not have

Under 18

Timeline

Screening 3 weeks

Treatment Varies

Follow Up 13 weeks

Awards & highlights

No Placebo-Only Group

Summary

This trial investigates if a facilitated self-help group can help people with hoarding disorder reduce their symptoms. Participants will support each other under the guidance of a facilitator, aiming to improve their ability to manage hoarding behaviors. The Buried in Treasures (BIT) program is a structured, skills-based group led by facilitators.

Who is the study for?

This trial is for individuals with clinically significant hoarding symptoms. It's not suitable for those under 18 or people dealing with psychotic disorders, bipolar disorder, or substance abuse issues.

What is being tested?

The study tests the effectiveness of a facilitated self-help group in treating hoarding disorder. The goal is to see if this approach can reduce the symptoms over time.

What are the potential side effects?

Since this intervention involves a self-help group rather than medication, traditional side effects are not expected; however, participants may experience emotional discomfort discussing their condition.

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusion Criteria

You may be eligible if you check “Yes” for the criteria below

Select...

I experience significant difficulty discarding items, leading to clutter.

Exclusion Criteria

You may be eligible for the trial if you check “No” for criteria below:

Select...

I am younger than 18 years old.

Timeline

Screening ~ 3 weeks3 visits

Treatment ~ Varies

Follow Up ~ 13 weeks

Screening ~ 3 weeks

Treatment ~ Varies

Follow Up ~13 weeks

This trial's timeline: 3 weeks for screening, Varies for treatment, and 13 weeks for reporting.

Treatment Details

Study Objectives

Study objectives can provide a clearer picture of what you can expect from a treatment.

Primary study objectives

Hoarding Rating Scale

Awards & Highlights

No Placebo-Only Group

All patients enrolled in this study will receive some form of active treatment.

Trial Design

1Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Group I: Self-help groupExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

The facilitated self-help group, which represents an empirically supported intervention for hoarding (Frost et al., 2011).

0 / 2Eligibility criteria met

Research Highlights

Information in this section is not a recommendation. We encourage patients to speak with their healthcare team when evaluating any treatment decision.

Mechanism Of Action

Side Effect Profile

Prior Approvals

Other Research

The most common treatments for Hoarding Disorder, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and facilitated self-help groups, work by addressing the underlying cognitive and emotional factors that contribute to hoarding behaviors. CBT helps patients identify and challenge distorted beliefs about possessions, develop better decision-making skills, and reduce the anxiety associated with discarding items. Facilitated self-help groups provide structured support and guidance, allowing patients to share experiences and strategies in a supportive environment, which can enhance motivation and adherence to treatment. These mechanisms are crucial for Hoarding Disorder patients as they help break the cycle of hoarding, improve daily functioning, and enhance overall quality of life.

Meta-analysis of the efficacy of psychological and medical treatments for binge-eating disorder.Hoarding Disorder and a Systematic Review of Treatment with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.