Shopping addiction is a form of behavior that makes it difficult for you to control your purchases, and buy things that you do not really need. Shopping is then used because it gives a kick and escape from other emotions. The behavior causes problems, for example in the form of feelings of shame, anxiety, poorer finances and, in the worst case, large debts.
What is shopping addiction?
Shopping addiction or shopping addiction does not exist as a formal diagnosis, but is a well-known problem that can have serious consequences. It is called in English compulsive buying disorder. The first word, compulsive, which means compulsive, gives an insight into what it is about – a compulsive and poorly functioning behavior around purchasing. Behavior is often a strategy to reduce anxiety, either consciously or unconsciously. There may also be an unreasonable thought about what the purchases should lead to, such as being loved, happy or successful.
- There are different types of unhealthy buying behaviors for example:
- that you are constantly hunting for bargains even though you do not need the goods
- that you buy excessively many or expensive gifts to be liked
- that you buy status goods because you think you will then be admired or successful
- that you distract yourself from anxiety by clicking home goods, which you then regret that you bought
- that you buy things for yourself as comfort, often impulsive and ill-considered
It is also common to come up with excuses for why the purchases are needed, while the person feels shame and anxiety about their behavior, which can lead to new purchases. It easily becomes a vicious circle. Shopping addiction can have severe consequences in the form of difficulties in relationships, ruined personal finances and large debts.
Signs of shopping addiction
Having an unhealthy attitude towards shopping and shopping can manifest itself in the form of
- that you buy things even though you can not really afford them
- that you buy things you do not really need, because it gives a kick
- that you spend a lot of time looking in stores, online stores or on social media and planning for more purchases
- that you use shopping as a way to escape from difficult thoughts or feelings
- that you get annoyed and restless if you are not allowed to shop
- that you get annoyed when others comment on your purchases and your behavior
- that you buy things and hide them or lie about the purchases so as not to be questioned
- that it takes more and more expensive or more things to experience kicks
- that you are ashamed of your buying behavior, but still continue to buy more
- that you get anxiety from the problems the purchases give in the form of poor finances, lots of things you do not need and in the worst case large debts
- that you have tried to stop shopping but failed
What can I do myself?
Here are some tips on what you can do yourself to counter unhealthy purchases:
- Map the behavior. Try to identify how and why you buy things. For example, you may be shopping in certain emotional states, such as when you feel lonely, unsuccessful, or anxious.
- Make purchases difficult. Reduce all the ways that make it too easy to shop on impulse, such as digitally stored card numbers or shopping on credit.
- Pay in cash. Paying in cash can reduce the risk of unhealthy purchases, as it becomes clearer how much money it is.
- Talk about the problem. By talking about your problem with relatives or in a support group, you can get help and support.
- Plan purchases. Figure out what you really need and make a list. Buy nothing that is not on your list.
- Stop buying. If you have a hard time buying enough, you can try to introduce a total purchase stop for a period. It can be a buying stop for certain types of goods or at all, depending on your buying behavior.
- Ask for help. If there are days when you have a hard time staying away from shopping, ask for help from relatives so that together you can find other things to focus on.
Help with shopping addiction
It is common for people with compulsive buying behavior to also have other problems, such as anxiety, depression or other addictions. The treatment consists of psychotherapy that is adapted based on the overall picture of the problem. The focus is on changing behaviors and practicing managing emotions and resisting the urge to shop. Therapy can be given individually or in groups.
When should I seek help?
Seek help if you think you or a loved one is addicted to shopping.