"Hoarding is a condition in which people collect large quantities of objects. This clutter often interferes with healthy functioning and the use of one's home. It can also harm one's quality of life and/or relationships with others. Despite this harm, a person who hoards may panic at the thought of throwing things away. In the United States and Europe, compulsive hoarding is more common than popular culture would suggest. Between 2 and 6% of the population engage in compulsive hoarding. Research suggests many cases of hoarding go undiagnosed and untreated.Hoarding can harm both the person with the condition and their loved ones. Despite the inconvenience of the mess, someone who hoards objects may feel unable to stop. The behavior tends to grow worse until the person gets treatment. Getting rid of the items is rarely enough to solve the issue. Most people need to confront the emotions and beliefs causing the behavior. Otherwise, a person may replace the hoard with new objects. A therapist can help an individual understand and change their behavior. A person may eventually learn to throw items away without fear."