Why Some Patients Collect Things

Everybody collects something. Be it stamps, coins, or even memories, collecting serves as a way to preserve and cherish items or experiences that hold significance to us. However, there are some individuals who take collecting to a whole new level – patients. From hoarding medical supplies to stockpiling magazines, patients can collect almost anything and everything. But why do some patients have this urge to accumulate things? Let’s delve deeper into the psychology behind this behavior.

Firstly, it is important to understand that there is a difference between collecting and hoarding. Collecting involves consciously selecting and organizing specific items, while hoarding is an uncontrollable urge to save and acquire multiple items, often leading to clutter and disorganization. In this article, we will be focusing more on the psychological aspect of collecting, rather than hoarding.

There are numerous reasons why patients may collect things. One of the main reasons is the need for control and order in their lives. Being diagnosed with a medical condition can be overwhelming and chaotic for many patients. Collecting allows them to create a sense of control and predictability in their environment. By organizing their collected items, they feel like they have a handle on something in their life that is out of their control.

Another reason is the emotional attachment to the collected items. Patients may find comfort and emotional support in the objects they collect. For example, a cancer patient may collect medical supplies as a way to cope with their illness. These items serve as a reminder of their struggle and survival, giving them the strength and motivation to keep fighting.

Moreover, collecting can serve as a distraction from their illness. Patients who are going through painful treatments or prolonged hospital stays may use collecting as a way to shift their focus from their pain and discomfort. It allows them to escape from reality for a brief moment and indulge in something that brings them joy.

In some cases, patients may also collect things as a way to connect with others who share the same condition. For example, patients with a rare genetic disorder may collect books and articles about their condition, creating a sense of community and understanding among them. It also provides them with a sense of validation and comfort that they are not alone in their struggles.

Additionally, collecting can also be a means of self-expression for patients. Some may collect art or other creative items as a way to express their thoughts and emotions about their illness. It can also serve as a form of therapy, helping patients to process their feelings in a healthy and productive way.

However, as with any behavior, there can be negative consequences to collecting for patients. It can lead to financial strain, as patients may spend excessive amounts of money on their collections. It can also cause strain in relationships, as loved ones may not understand the behavior and feel frustrated with the clutter and disorganization.

In conclusion, collecting for patients serves as a coping mechanism and a way to bring order and control into their lives. It allows them to find comfort, distraction, and self-expression during difficult times. While there can be negative consequences, it is important to respect and understand the reasons behind this behavior. As healthcare professionals, it is crucial to provide support and guidance to patients who exhibit collecting behaviors, while also promoting healthy coping strategies.