Ep 1. Surviving on Trash

The episode "Surviving on Trash" from season 3 of Hoarding: Buried Alive tells the story of a woman named Laverne who has been hoarding for over 30 years. Her home, which she shares with her husband, is cluttered with piles of paper, boxes, and bags full of what appears to be garbage, making it difficult for them to move around and use their space.

Laverne admits that she has an addiction to collecting things and struggles to let go of even the most insignificant items. She describes it as a feeling of comfort and safety to be surrounded by all of her things, even though it has caused her husband to live in an unsafe and unsanitary environment.

The episode also features the work of a professional organizer and therapist who work with Laverne to understand the root cause of her hoarding disorder. Through therapy, Laverne begins to recognize the negative impact her hoarding has had on her relationships and health.

As the clean-up process progresses, Laverne becomes more aware of her thinking patterns and begins to make progress in letting go of items that no longer serve a purpose. The team of professionals work diligently to clear the clutter, sanitize the home, and make it livable once again.

Throughout the episode, viewers are shown the emotional toll that hoarding takes on individuals and their families, as well as the physical dangers that come with living among piles of clutter and garbage. It highlights the importance of seeking professional help and support to overcome this disorder and live in a safe and healthy environment.

Overall, "Surviving on Trash" is a powerful episode that sheds light on the devastating effects of hoarding and the hope that comes with seeking help. It serves as a reminder that recovery is possible and that individuals struggling with hoarding disorder are not alone.