Ask The Expert: Lee Shuer - Hoarding Disorder RecoveryAsk The Expert: Lee Shuer - Hoarding Disorder Recovery
The Courage to Change: A Recovery Podcast
Lee Shuer is a Certified Peer Specialist and internationally recognized expert in Hoarding Disorder and has been at the forefront of developing self-help groups for people with HD. Lee’s own complicated relationship with things started at age 3 years old when he began asking people the question “Do you have anything that you don’t need?”.
58:39•8 Nov 2022
Lee Shuer: Understanding and Recovering from Hoarding Disorder
“I want to discuss the more flashy, so to speak, aspects of hoarding disorder, and maybe you can talk a little bit about your experience where the outcome of the unresolved- that would, the desire to keep those emotions- is in one way shape or form an unlivable space that either is unlivable to you or someone else in your house, or causes damage in terms of danger, fire, et cetera.”
How does someone go from collecting items at age three to becoming an internationally recognized expert in hoarding disorder? Meet Lee Shuer, a Certified Peer Specialist whose journey with hoarding started with a simple question, 'Do you have anything that you don’t need?' In this episode of 'The Courage to Change: A Recovery Podcast', Lee opens up about his personal struggle with hoarding and the emotional baggage tied to his possessions.
From World Trade Center memorabilia to unsent letters, Lee's story is both eye-opening and relatable for anyone dealing with similar issues. Lee shares his insights into what defines hoarding disorder, emphasizing that it's the saving behaviors, not the objects themselves, that characterize the condition. He stresses the importance of language, advocating for a shift away from the term 'hoarder', which he feels has become derogatory.
Instead, he suggests finding out what language people are comfortable with and using that as a way to foster understanding and compassion. The episode delves into why people save items and the connection between hoarding disorder and trauma. Lee recounts how he had to confront his own 'trauma trophies' and make difficult decisions to let go. The discussion also covers the impact of hoarding on living spaces, turning homes into unlivable environments filled with potential hazards.
Lee doesn't just talk about the challenges; he also highlights the joy and freedom found in recovery. He discusses the role of comorbidities and how groups like children of hoarders can offer support. Education, he believes, is key to helping people change their lives. With compassion and a touch of humor, Lee and the hosts provide a wealth of knowledge on hoarding disorder recovery.
This episode is not just informative but also motivational, encouraging listeners to trust their own judgment and find joy in their recovery journey.
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