Compulsive Shopping. Many of us enjoy the thrill of finding a great deal or treating ourselves to something new. Shopping can be a fun and even therapeutic activity.
However, for some, this pleasure can spiral into a serious problem, evolving into what’s known as shopaholism or compulsive buying disorder (CBD).
Often likened to other behavioral addictions like problem gambling or even substance abuse, shopaholism is a recognized mental health condition that can significantly disrupt a person’s life.
Compulsive Shopping, more Than Just a Purchase.
It’s common to associate the excessive love for shopping malls with pathological deviations such as alcoholism and drug addiction, especially during events like “Black Friday” sales when prices seem to plummet.
However, it’s crucial to remember that retailers are adept at employing various tricks to fuel this shopping frenzy, often making it difficult for consumers to discern genuine deals from manipulative tactics.
As someone who typically writes about health matters, I’m now addressing a no less important issue: shopaholism.
I know this firsthand because I myself have struggled with this affliction. For me, and many other women, there’s a simple pleasure in shopping and returning home with unplanned purchases.
The statistics are alarming: approximately 70% of all purchases are made impulsively, driven by a “here and now” urge. So, where is the dangerous line between an accidental purchase and the squandering of money that is known as shopaholism?
What Exactly is Shopaholism?
In short, shopaholism, or compulsive buying disorder, refers to an irresistible urge to shop. To understand and determine if you might classify yourself as a shopping addict, it’s essential to grasp the terminology.
A shopaholic is an individual who desires to acquire many items, regardless of their necessity or cost. Their internal mantra often becomes, “I want it and that’s all there is to it: it’s a matter of life or death!”
Consequently, shopaholism is a fanatical desire to buy everything indiscriminately, and psychologists classify it as a mental disorder.
While spontaneity or the desire to improve one’s mood with a purchase is common for women… a trait that often differentiates us from the “stronger sex” it becomes problematic when the urge to acquire items completely overwhelms the mind and heart.
The inability to make a desired purchase can lead to despair and irritability, and sadly, the realization of what has been done after a purchase often brings sadness and leads to debt.
Am I a Shopaholic?
Identifying the Signs.
Just as diagnosing any illness begins with identifying typical symptoms, you can’t simply label yourself a “shopaholic.” It’s important to understand the main characteristics of this addiction: “Buying everything, everywhere, and at any cost.”
Answer the questions below to gain insight into whether you might be struggling with shopping addiction:
1. Do you frequently shop, viewing it as a way to improve your mood?
2. Do you spend a significant amount of time in shopping centers or online stores?
3. Have you found yourself unable to stop spending money on purchases instead of paying bills?
4. Have you ever needed to borrow money for purchases?
5. Do you often think about what you want to buy?
6. Is walking around stores a very exciting event for you?
7. Do you enjoy spending a lot of time looking at new items you’ve just acquired?
8. Do you frequently experience remorse after spending a large sum of money?
So, what’s your take? Are you one, or are you not?
If you’re still not sure, let’s continue.
Deeper Indicators of Compulsive Shopping.
• Multiple Bank Cards, One Secret: You have several bank cards, one of which is secret and solely for your use. Sometimes you hide your purchases from loved ones or lie about the amounts spent.
• Shopping as the Ultimate Escape: The best way for you to relax and cheer yourself up isn’t the cinema, a café, a walk in the park, or meeting a friend; it’s a marathon in shopping centers.
• Ignoring Shopping Lists: Creating a shopping list feels like a waste of time and effort! No matter how hard you try, you never stick to it.
• Prioritizing Wants Over Needs: Necessary purchases are replaced by items far from essential. For example, buying car insurance “transforms” into acquiring high-end cosmetics at a store.
• The Cycle of Guilt and Repetition: You mentally and loudly scold yourself for unnecessary purchases, promising never to do it again, but soon you’re back on the treadmill of compulsive buying. Discounts, promotions, sales—these aren’t empty words; they’re cherished new price tags on goods that soothe your eyes. It doesn’t matter if the item isn’t needed; your hands are already reaching for your wallet.
• Concealing Costs: It has become a habit to hide the true cost of purchases from your spouse, parents, and acquaintances.
• Accumulating Debt: You regularly “fall” into debt, and some acquaintances openly refuse to “help out until payday.”
• Rationalizing Purchases: You don’t consider yourself a shopaholic because there’s nothing wrong with buying a trendy high-tech lamp for your apartment’s comfort or another bulky item that makes you the owner of a “fateful design.”
If you recognize yourself in any of these descriptions, it’s a reason to reflect on potential “rosy” future perspectives. This could mean cabinets and apartment corners overflowing with unnecessary items, accumulating financial debt, and strained relationships with friends and relatives due to your excessive obsession with stores and brands.
If several of these characteristics apply directly to you, it’s highly recommended to seek consultation with a psychologist! Like any mental illness, competent professional advice is necessary here.
Breaking the Cycle.
Strategies for Recovery.
Of course, the foundation for overcoming addiction is recognizing the problem and making a clear decision to get rid of it. During therapy, various methods are often developed to help individuals break free from this harmful habit. A psychologist may suggest the following approaches:
• Pre-Shopping Lists and Review: Create a shopping list before each trip to the store and adhere to it meticulously. Afterward, discuss the list and your purchases at your next therapy session.
• Cash-Only Shopping: Go to the store with a specific amount of cash and leave all credit cards at home.
• Shopping with a Companion for Larger Purchases: For bigger purchases, only go shopping accompanied by a trusted loved one who can offer support and accountability.
• Limiting Exposure to Ads: Reduce your consumption of television and internet Browse to avoid constant exposure to new product advertisements.
• Structured Daily Planning: Plan your daily schedule to leave as little time as possible for shopping activities.
It’s also crucial to be aware of the traps laid by advertising specialists. Understanding these tactics can help you resist temptation.
Additionally, as part of therapy, your doctor may recommend getting rid of items accumulated during your shopaholism. Smart shopping will help!
The Neuroscience Behind Compulsive Buying.
Remember, shopping addiction, like other addictions, is a disorder rooted in the brain’s reward center. It creates a desire for satisfaction and to make new purchases, regardless of whether the acquired goods are needed or if there’s enough money for primary necessities.
In more severe situations, shopaholism can lead to serious financial hardship and relationship crises.
Shop mindfully and with moderation!
Have a good day!
