Identifying adolescents with hoarding disorder

Hoarding disorder is a relatively new diagnosis in the DSM-5, only just included in the most recent edition. The disorder has piqued the interest of many in the community, in part because of the hit TV show called "Hoarders." Although there is interest, there continues to be relatively few research studies into the causes, treatment, and management of this disorder specifically in adolescences. Yet, in the research that has been published, it often sites the disorder first appearing in adolescents. This paper will discuss the following elements of adolescent hoarding disorder: The potential etiology and risk factors noted in the literature, the DSM-5 criteria for the diagnosis of hoarding disorder, and the characteristic signs and symptoms found in the adolescent presentation, as well as treatment. Finally, it will also include recommendations for healthcare professionals for early screening and treatment.