Shopping Addiction – For some people, shopping is a great and enjoyable activity. However, be careful not to become addicted to shopping. The problem is, that this can lead to losses in many aspects of your life.
Shopping addiction, also known as shopaholic or compulsive buying disorder (CBD), is a condition where a person has difficulty controlling or has an uncontrollable urge to buy items excessively. This condition can affect both women and men but is often experienced by a wide range of people.
Shopping addiction is often a sign of psychological problems, such as anxiety issues, eating disorders, mood problems, and even personality issues.
Recognizing the Signs of Shopping Addiction
Shopaholics can be identified by several of the following characteristics:
- Shopping excessively without considering whether it’s necessary and often not using the purchased items.
- Shopping to alleviate depression due to loneliness, frustration, conflicts with friends or partners, or job stress.
- Excessive shopping is done secretly, with no one else knowing.
- Spending beyond one’s financial means or credit card limit.
- Experiencing intense joy after buying something excessively.
- Feeling joy followed by guilt and regret over the pattern of excessive shopping but continuing to do the same thing repeatedly.
How to Deal with It?
Shopping addiction is not a good thing to nurture. This behavior can lead to financial difficulties in the future, damage relationships with others, and neglect of responsibilities.
Furthermore, a shopaholic tends to be more materialistic but feels low self-esteem and can easily be influenced by others. To address shopping addiction, here are several things that can be done:
- Find healthier ways to manage depression, such as exercising, practicing hobbies, gardening, or watching trending movies.
- Use money wisely, such as spending it on essential household needs or helping those in need.
- Create a sound financial plan.
- If possible, avoid using credit cards.
- If you want to shop, make a shopping list beforehand and commit to not buying things you don’t need.
- Seek input from friends, partners, or family to help manage shopping expenses.
If you recognize signs of shopping addiction in yourself or someone around you, consider consulting a psychiatrist or psychologist for assistance.
