Since the beginning of the 2000s, Carl Kyrk has worked as a specialized cleaner.
He takes on assignments that many other cleaning companies might have turned down.
- There are usually three things that cause collecting to get out of hand: illness, a loved one dying or divorce, he says in the documentary Samlarna.
Genetics matter
It is not yet proven in research, but traumatic events can be a possible reason for developing hoarder syndrome, according to Volen Ivanov.
He is a psychologist and researcher at the Karolinska Institute with hoarder's syndrome as the main research focus.
- We know that genetics usually play a role, but we do not know exactly which genes increase the risk of this, he says.
More common than thought
Hoarding syndrome means that you have difficulty getting rid of things.
- It was previously believed that a few people are affected, but it is approximately 2.5 percent of the population who have hoarder's syndrome.
For those who find it difficult to get out of a problematic gathering, help is available, including in the form of housing support from social services.
Watch the documentary Samlarna on 19/1 on SVT2 at 20:00 or whenever you want on SVT Play.
Do you need help and support? Read more at ocdforbundet.se.