Ep 4. Ruby & Mary

In Hoarders season 8 episode 4, titled "Ruby & Mary," the show focuses on two women who suffer from hoarding disorder. Ruby, a retired librarian, has been hoarding for over 25 years and her home has become completely uninhabitable. Mary, a former nurse, has been hoarding for years as well and her home is filled with piles of clothes and items that she has accumulated over time.

The episode begins with Dr. Robin Zasio, a licensed clinical psychologist, meeting with Ruby's family to discuss the severity of her hoarding. Ruby's niece explains that she has tried to clean up the house multiple times over the years but Ruby always becomes defensive and refuses to throw anything away. The family is worried because Ruby's home has become so cluttered that it is affecting her health and safety.

Dr. Zasio then meets with Ruby in her home to assess the situation. Ruby admits that she has a problem and wants to change, but she is overwhelmed by the amount of items in her home. Dr. Zasio sets up a plan for Ruby to begin cleaning out her home and contacts a local company to provide dumpsters for the trash and a hauling service for the larger items. Ruby is hesitant at first but eventually agrees to the plan.

Meanwhile, Dr. Zasio meets with Mary, who is also struggling with her hoarding. Mary's home is filled with piles of clothes, bags, and other items that she has accumulated over time. Dr. Zasio notes that Mary is struggling with anxiety and is using hoarding as a coping mechanism.

As with Ruby, Dr. Zasio sets up a plan for Mary to begin cleaning out her home. Mary initially struggles with the process and becomes emotional as she sorts through her items, but she eventually begins to make progress. Dr. Zasio notes that it is important for Mary to continue therapy to address her anxiety and to help her avoid falling back into her hoarding habits.

Throughout the episode, we see both women make progress in their cleaning efforts, but it is not without struggles. Ruby becomes emotional as she comes across items that have sentimental value, while Mary struggles with letting go of items that she feels hold memories of her past. However, with support from Dr. Zasio and their families, both women make significant strides towards improving their situations.

The episode concludes with both Ruby and Mary's homes significantly decluttered and cleaned, allowing them to live in safer and healthier environments. Both women express gratitude for the help they have received and acknowledge that the process was not easy but ultimately worth it. The episode ends with a reminder of the importance of seeking help for hoarding disorder and the success that can come from addressing the issue head-on.