Testing a Brief Exercise Intervention in Hoarding Disorder

Launched by HARTFORD HOSPITAL · Aug 15, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying how a brief exercise program might help people with hoarding disorder (HD) feel less distressed when it comes to discarding their possessions. Hoarding disorder makes it very hard for individuals to let go of items, leading to significant emotional pain and health risks, such as a higher chance of heart disease, stroke, and obesity. The researchers want to see if 30 minutes of moderate exercise can reduce this distress and increase a brain protein called BDNF, which is linked to better mental health. Participants will be asked to sort through and discard items while the researchers measure their levels of distress and BDNF.

To join the study, participants need to be between 45 and 65 years old and have a primary diagnosis of hoarding disorder. However, individuals with certain health issues, mobility problems, or serious mental health conditions like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder won't be eligible. The study has not started recruiting participants yet, but once it does, those who participate can expect to engage in some exercise and a discarding task, helping researchers learn more about how exercise might be beneficial for people with hoarding disorder. This trial could lead to new treatment options, especially since current therapies only help about one-third of patients.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Primary diagnosis of hoarding disorder
• • Age 45-65 years
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Contraindications to engaging in exercise, including cardiovascular, metabolic, or renal disease, thyroid problems, uncontrolled hypertension
• • Significant mobility issues that would preclude brisk walking
• • Schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, serious suicidal risk, active substance use disorder, and cognitive impairment that may preclude the ability to provide informed consent and/or participate in study procedures