Last reviewed: May 12, 2026 Last updated: May 12, 2026

Written by: Jay Hastings , CEO of PlexusDx

Jay Hastings is the CEO of PlexusDx, a precision health company focused on genetic testing, blood biomarker insights, and personalized wellness recommendations. He has more than 20 years of experience across healthcare innovation, genomics, laboratory operations, healthcare investing, and strategic finance. His work has included scaling healthcare startups, leading CLIA lab integrations, and helping expand consumer access to precision health tools.

Medically reviewed by: Jayden Lee, PharmD, EMBA

Jayden Lee, PharmD, EMBA, is the PlexusDx Medical Science Liaison with a PharmD and MBA specializing in pharmacogenomics and clinical product development, with a proven ability to bridge the gap between genomic research and practical patient outcomes. Dr. Lee has more than 10 years of professional experience in clinical pharmacy, academia, and research.

Understanding Hoarding

Have you ever questioned why certain individuals experience difficulty separating themselves from possessions that lack any meaningful worth? People often mistakenly label hoarding behavior as simple clutter when it actually stems from more profound underlying issues. This blog post investigates the hereditary characteristics of hoarding behavior and its effects on mental and cognitive health.

Genetic Trait

The condition of hoarding involves an inability to discard possessions which results in cluttered living spaces and safety risks regardless of the items' practical value. Collectors and hoarders both build up collections but collectors keep their possessions organized while hoarders display strong emotional attachments to their items. Collectors keep their collections orderly because they fully understand each item's value. Hoarders experience challenges when trying to discard possessions which creates chaotic and cluttered living spaces. People who hoard collect a wide range of possessions including newspapers and books alongside animals and electronic data. If left unchecked, hoarding can manifest in various ways, such as:

  • Individuals who struggle with hoarding behaviors can benefit from talk therapy to manage their distress and functional impairments.
  • Scientific exploration has revealed multiple genetic factors which make certain people more susceptible to hoarding behaviors. These factors include:

Genetic factors account for up to 40% of the variation in hoarding tendencies through their impact on both brain cell development and chemical signaling processes. Research continues to analyze the genetic model of hoarding although it remains scientifically unconfirmed while scientists study the complex interactions between genetics and hoarding tendencies. Here are actionable tips for anyone dealing with hoarding tendencies to manage this issue successfully.

  1. Seek Professional Help: Contact mental health experts who specialize in hoarding disorder to obtain individualized assistance and support.
  2. Establish Sorting Routines: Establish regular cleaning and sorting schedules to manage belongings and stop the build-up of excessive items.
  3. Practice Decision-Making Skills: Develop effective decision-making skills by implementing detailed guidelines which determine whether items should be kept or discarded based on their usefulness and importance.
  4. Create Functional Living Spaces: To optimize living spaces organize them by focusing on essential items and setting up specific storage locations for better organization maintenance.

People who apply these strategies and seek support will manage their hoarding tendencies better and develop healthier living habits. Exploring genetic factors behind hoarding behaviors provides essential knowledge about mental and cognitive health complexities. The well-being of individuals exhibiting hoarding tendencies improves through proactive measures like therapy and organizational methods. Begin your mental health journey through Precision Health & Wellness tests provided by PlexusDx which you can purchase from PlexusDx.com as well as Amazon and Walmart. By adopting a holistic health and wellness strategy you empower yourself to make knowledgeable choices that lead to a better future.

Medical and Editorial Standards

Medical review process: This article was reviewed for medical accuracy, scientific clarity, evidence alignment, and appropriate discussion of genetics, medications, supplements, biomarkers, and health-related claims.

Sources and evidence: PlexusDx educational content is developed using peer-reviewed research, clinical literature, reputable medical references, and, where applicable, public health or regulatory guidance. References are included at the end of the article when scientific, medical, or health-related claims are discussed.

Commercial transparency: PlexusDx offers genetic testing, blood biomarker testing, personalized supplement recommendations, and related precision wellness services. Product mentions are intended to help readers understand available options and should not be interpreted as medical advice.

Important disclaimer: PlexusDx educational content is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making decisions about medications, supplements, genetic testing, lab testing, or health-related care.