Too Much Stuff group to provide peer support for possessions

New Support Group Offers Help for those Struggling with “Too Much Stuff”

If you are facing challenges with the volume of your possessions, struggling with clutter, or noticing hoarding behaviors, a new in-person group is here to help.

The Mental Health Association in New Jersey in Ocean County’s (MHANJOC’s) “Too Much Stuff” peer support group will meet the fourth Thursday of each month from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Association’s administrative office, 1747 Hooper Avenue, Unit 15, Toms River.

This peer group offers a safe, respectful space where participation is voluntary and guided by compassion, choice, and lived experience. Participants are invited to share at their own pace, build connection, and explore supportive strategies for change without judgment or pressure.

You are more than your belongings!

“Wherever someone is on their journey with managing their ‘stuff,’ this support group can serve as a tool to support them,” said Catherine Galesky, an MHANJOC Peer Navigator. “Possessions can be overwhelming, and coming together with others who have similar experiences can be helpful.”

“Many people struggle quietly with the emotional weight of too much stuff,” said Jennifer Gallagher, MHANJOC’s Director of Wellness & Community Engagement. By creating a judgment-free space rooted in lived experience, this group helps reduce stigma and open the door to healing and connection.”

“Too Much Stuff” began as Mental Health Association in Atlantic County initiative to prevent and respond to hoarding behaviors and has since expanded to include multiple supports, including an online group through MHA’s United By Wellness program, the Atlantic County “Buried in Treasures” workshop, the Hoarding Awareness Prevention and Intervention Institute, and now, MHANJOC’s monthly in-person group.

To attend, contact Catherine Galesky at cgalesky@mhanj.org or simply walk in. For more information, email cgalesky@mhanj.org.