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Home » Self-tests » Shopping addiction test

Shopping addiction test

Having problems with shopping is common and here you can take a test to see how you can get help and support.

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Instructions

Read each question and choose the answer that best matches your experience.

How often do you go shopping to change your mood or feel better?(Required)

Rarely, I shop mostly for practical reasons.

Sometimes, especially when I feel low.

Often, it is my way of dealing with emotions.

Do you often buy more than you originally intended?(Required)

Almost never.

Sometimes it happens.

Yes, almost every time I go shopping.

Have you lied about your purchases or hidden them from others?(Required)

No, I am open about what I buy.

Sometimes, but not often.

Yes, I often try to hide my purchases.

Do you feel guilty or anxious after shopping?(Required)

No, I feel satisfied with my purchases.

Sometimes, especially after major purchases.

Yes, almost every time.

How does shopping affect your finances?(Required)

Not at all, I have good control over my budget.

I sometimes find it difficult to keep to the budget.

I often have financial problems because of my shopping.

Have you tried to reduce or stop shopping, but not succeeded?(Required)

No, I have not needed it.

Yes, I try but it is difficult.

Yes, I fail time and time again.

How often do you feel a strong urge to shop, even without a concrete need?(Required)

Rarely, I buy what I need.

Sometimes, especially when I’m bored.

Often, just the thought of shopping feels appealing.

Have you found that your shopping behaviour has affected your relationships?(Required)

No, it has never been a problem.

Sometimes, but we work it out.

Yes, it has led to conflict or unrest.

Have you ever felt depressed or worried when you couldn't go shopping?(Required)

No, it does not affect me.

A little, but it passes quickly.

Yes, I get restless or depressed.

Do you have many unused or unnecessary items at home?(Required)

No, I only buy what I need.

A few, but not many.

Yes, I have accumulated a lot of stuff I don’t use.

Your score

Count your points and understand your result:

23-30 points: High risk of shopping addiction – Your shopping behaviour seems to be affecting you negatively. It may be useful to talk to a therapist or financial advisor to find alternative strategies.
16-22 points: Some signs of shopping problems – Your shopping behaviour may be influenced by emotions or impulses. Think about what triggers you have and if there are other ways to deal with them. Going to therapy can be helpful.
10-15 points: Low risk of shopping addiction – You seem to have a balanced relationship with consumption. Continue to make conscious choices that suit your finances and well-being.

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What is shopping addiction?

Shopping addiction is a compulsive need to shop – despite negative consequences for finances, relationships and health. It is not a matter of occasionally treating yourself to something nice, but a pattern of using shopping as a way to manage emotions or seek rewards. For many, the purchase provides temporary relief, but is often followed by anxiety, guilt or shame. Shopping addiction is not an official diagnosis but can still be a problem behaviour.

Common signs of shopping addiction:

You shop to cope with stress, anxiety, depression or boredom.
You lose control of your purchases and buy more than you intended.
You hide your purchases from others or lie about how much you spent.
You feel euphoric when you make a purchase, but regret it soon afterwards.
You have debts or financial problems because of your shopping behaviour.
You try to stop or reduce your shopping, but fall back into the same pattern.

Shopping addiction can affect both personal life and mental health. People with shopping addiction may also struggle with problems such as low self-esteem, impulsivity or other addictions. In addition, the consumer society’s constant message that gadgets make us happy can reinforce the problem.

Acknowledging that you have a problem with your buying behaviour is an important step towards change. This self-test is not a diagnosis, but it can help you reflect on your habits and whether they are affecting you more than you might like to admit. Tests take around 5 minutes to complete and can be a guide to seeking more support.

What can I do if I have problems with shopping?

If your symptoms are negatively affecting your everyday life or relationships, consider contacting a psychologist or therapist for professional help. Problem shopping is a treatable condition and it is possible to feel better. At Lavendla, we have experienced psychologists and therapists who can help you.

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