#204 Am I my things? When possessions define us: the psychological connection between identity, self-concept and hoarding with Dr Jan Eppingstall

About this episode

The episode explores the psychological connection between possessions and identity, discussing the challenges of letting go for those who hoard.

Come to a Dehoarding Accountability Zoom Session: http://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/ticket Subscribe to the podcast: https://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/subscribe Podcast show notes, links and transcript: http://www.overcomecompulsivehoarding.co.uk/ On this episode, I’m joined by Dr Jan Eppingstall to unpack how our possessions connect with our sense of identity and self-concept, and why letting go can feel so threatening for those of us who hoard. We talk through how objects hold meaning, memories, and dreams for the future, and what it looks like to build a stronger sense of self without clinging to things. If you’ve ever felt like discarding something meant losing a part of yourself, you definitely want to listen to this one. We break down exactly why that fear happens and where to start. A plant pot associated with negative experiences. Discussion of emotional and aesthetic reasons for keeping vs. discarding. Objects “glowering" at us. Identity and Self-Concept in Hoarding Definition of identity and self-concept. Possessions and Sense of Identity The psychological process of possessions intertwining with identity. How this differs from typical sentimental…

People in this episode

Guest: Dr Jan Eppingstall

Topics covered

• identity
• self-concept
• hoarding
• psychological connection
• letting go
• possessions

Keywords

• hoarding disorder
• identity
• self-concept
• possessions
• letting go
• emotional attachment
• meaning-making

More episodes of That Hoarder: Overcome Compulsive Hoarding

• I'm ok · March 26, 2026 · 1 min
• REMIX: Why we over-shop and compulsively acquire, and how to stop, with Dr Jan Eppingstall · January 9, 2026 · 1h 1m
• REMIX: OCD and hoarding disorder with Jenna Overbaugh · January 2, 2026 · 47 min
• REMIX: Therapy and hoarding disorder - what are the options? With Dr Jan Eppingstall · December 26, 2025 · 1h 18m
• REMIX: ADHD and hoarding disorder with Professor Sharon Morein · December 21, 2025 · 46 min
• #207 13 actionable pieces of mental health advice from six former podcast guests · December 12, 2025 · 53 min