Do I Have Diogenes?

Do you withdraw from social situations and avoid others?

Does your home exhibit signs of neglect and decay (e.g., rodent infestation, exaggerated amounts of garbage in and around the home)?

Do you engage in extreme self-neglect?

Do you engage in excessive hoarding?

Do you experience no embarrassment or shame about your surroundings or lack of cleanliness?

Do you refuse support or help?

Although it is unlikely that you have Diogenes, you may be displaying a sign related to it. When a person displays excessive hoarding, has a dirty home and poor personal hygiene, he may be suffering from Diogenes syndrome. It’s a behavioral disorder that usually affects older people. People with Diogenes withdraw from life and society. They often live alone and do not see that there is anything wrong with them. Because they don’t take care of themselves and their homes, this can lead to illnesses such as pneumonia, or accidents like falls or fires. In case you answered ‘no’ to all questions, there may be no need to worry.

Based on your answers, you may be displaying two symptoms related to Diogenes. It may be useful to plan a visit to your doctor. Diogenes is a behavioral disorder in which a person does not take care of themselves or their surroundings. This leads to poor hygiene and possibly health and social problems. People with Diogenes don’t recognize they have a problem and are often diagnosed after a family member reaches out for help. Views on self-hygiene may vary between people and cultures, however someone with Diogenes may be at risk of harm from self-neglect or lack of hygiene.

Unfortunately, you are displaying symptoms typically seen among individuals who have Diogenes. It is highly recommended to plan a visit to your mental health professional. Diogenes is a behavioral disorder in which a person does not take care of themselves or their surroundings. At the moment there are no medications or therapy options that are specific for treating the problem. However, medications for paranoia or mania may help and intensive psychological therapy as well. Besides, cleaning and personal care services can help to decrease the severity of symptoms. It’s important that any intervention is done with care and sensitivity.