Ep 1. Running Out of Time

In the season 8 premiere episode of Hoarding: Buried Alive, titled "Running Out of Time," viewers are introduced to Cathy, a mother of two who has been hoarding for over 30 years. Cathy's home is filled to the brim with countless items, including newspapers, magazines, clothes, and knick-knacks. She has trouble navigating through her own home, with narrow pathways carved out only by the most frequent routes she takes.

Cathy's hoarding has strained her relationships with her family, including her husband, who has refused to live with her for the past 14 years. Her oldest daughter, Tanya, hopes that a clean and organized house could not only help repair their strained relationship but also prevent her mother from becoming trapped in her own home. However, Cathy is adamant that she does not have a problem, and that she can control her hoarding tendencies.

As the episode progresses, it becomes clear that Cathy's hoarding has become increasingly unhealthy and dangerous. She has been injured multiple times while navigating through her home, and she admits to sometimes going days without eating or drinking because she cannot access her kitchen. Cathy also has a serious heart condition, and her hoarding has prevented her from receiving proper medical care.

The Hoarding: Buried Alive team steps in to help Cathy, starting with an intervention led by Dr. Robin Zasio, a licensed clinical psychologist and expert in hoarding disorder. Dr. Zasio helps Cathy understand the severity of her hoarding and the potential consequences if she does not address it. Cathy eventually agrees to work with the team to clean out her home.

The cleanout process is difficult and emotional for Cathy, who struggles to let go of her possessions. She becomes visibly upset when some items are thrown away, and she becomes overwhelmed when going through some of the more sentimental items. However, with the help of her family, friends, and the Hoarding: Buried Alive team, Cathy makes significant progress in the cleanout process.

The episode showcases the challenges and emotional toll of hoarding, not just on the individual but on the entire family system. It also emphasizes the importance of seeking professional help when dealing with hoarding disorder. Overall, "Running Out of Time" is a gripping and emotional episode that sheds light on the devastating effects of hoarding disorder.