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Breaking a behaviour can be one of the most challenging aspects of being human. When you have a pattern that results in negative consequences, seeking help may be necessary. In this context, we will explain shopping addiction and how you can address it.
What is shopping addiction?
Shopping addiction, also known as compulsive buying or oniomania, is a psychological addiction in which an individual feels an irresistible urge to spend money, often in ways that are detrimental to their financial, social and personal lives. This behaviour goes beyond regular consumption and becomes a way of dealing with emotional problems, stress or low self-esteem. It can lead to severe consequences financially, emotionally and in relationships of the affected person.
Is shopping addiction a diagnosis?
Shopping addiction is not formally recognized as a diagnosis in diagnostic manuals such as the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) and the International Classification of Diseases (ICD).
Despite this, it is recognized by many as a real and sometimes serious psychological problem. The symptoms of shopping addiction are similar to those seen in other addiction disorders, such as compulsive behaviour, continued involvement in addictive activities despite negative consequences, and a sense of loss of control. If you have a shopping problem, seek help and get treatment.
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Causes of shopping addiction
Shopping addiction is thought to be caused by a mixture of psychological, social and biological factors. The causes can include the need to cope with negative emotions such as anxiety or depression, the influence of marketing and social pressure, and possibly a biological predisposition to addictive behaviours.
It can also be linked to other mental health conditions and used as a coping mechanism for emotional pain. Sometimes it can be used as a way to achieve temporary happiness or reward. Each case is unique, and treatment is tailored to each individual.
Symptoms of shopping addiction
Although shopping addiction is not an official diagnosis, there are some characteristic features. These can include:
- The irresistible urge to shop: An overwhelming compulsion to buy things, even when there is no need or not enough money for it.
- Emotional fulfilment: Shopping is used as a way to deal with negative emotions such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or loneliness.
- Post-purchase guilt: After shopping, the individual may feel guilt, shame or regret, but despite this, the behaviour continues.
- Financial problems: Continued shopping despite financial difficulties as a direct consequence of the purchases.
- Conflicts in relationships: Shopping behaviour may lead to conflicts with family members, partners, or friends, often due to financial implications.
- Hiding the behaviour: People may hide purchases, how much they spend, or the number of items purchased, from loved ones.
- Dependence on the feeling it creates: During the purchasing process, a shopping addict may feel euphoria or excitement, followed by an emotional ‘hangover’.
Help with a shopping addiction
If you think you may have a shopping addiction or are at risk of developing one, it is important to seek help. If you do not seek help this problem can develop and worsen over time.
Treatment for shopping addiction
Treatment may include therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to help the individual understand and change their behaviour, and counselling to address any underlying mental health issues. In some cases, medication to manage anxiety or depression may also aid in your recovery.
Treatment with CBT online
You can get therapy for shopping addiction online. At Lavendla, all of our psychologists and CBT therapists treat patients online.
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From conversation to understanding and change
Talk therapy is often the first step in seeking help. Working with a psychologist or therapist, you can begin to understand your symptoms and triggers, which is essential for change.
When is professional help unavoidable?
If you are experiencing signs of shopping addiction that are affecting your life or work, you need to seek professional help. It is never too late to break free from addiction. Help is available, and support is just a click away. If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction, don’t hesitate to seek professional help.
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Book a 20—or 45-minute session with a psychologist or therapist today via our website booking form. If you are not ready now, you can always return when you are ready to make a change. Together, we make the hard things easier.
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12 FAQs about Shopping Addiction
What is shopping addiction?
Addiction is a complex psychological condition in which the individual feels an inability to stop performing a certain activity, despite negative consequences.
Is shopping addiction a disease?
Not officially, but while shopping addiction is not a formal diagnosis in the major diagnostic manuals it does not mean that it is not a problem behaviour.
Can shopping addiction be cured?
All types of addiction can be treated, but it often requires care and support. It is possible to change your patterns and improve your quality of life.
What are the signs that I may be a shopping addict?
Symptoms include an excessive compulsion to shop, obsessive thoughts about shopping, and loss of control resulting in negative feelings and consequences.
What are the risks of shopping addiction?
The potential risks range from problems with physical and mental health to financial and relationship problems. It is therefore advisable to seek help if you have a shopping problem.
How can I help a family member with a shopping addiction?
The first step is to offer your support. Encourage them to seek professional help and stand by them during treatment. Seek information about shopping addictions if you find it difficult to understand.
What treatment options are available?
There are several different types of treatment such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
Can shopping addicts have other mental health problems?
There may be underlying mental health problems such as anxiety or depression.
What can be done in case of relapse?
Relapse can happen, and it is important to seek help immediately. A relapse is not a sign of failure, but it is important to get back on track.
What resources are available?
In addition to our professional therapists and psychologists, many websites, books, and support groups can offer additional information and support.
Can I be treated online?
Yes, all of our therapists and psychologists do their support sessions via video conferencing.
How important is the support system around a person with an addiction?
A support system is often crucial to a successful recovery. This includes professional help and a good support system both emotionally and practically.
Treatment steps to improve quality of life
Treatment for shopping addiction differs from person to person, although they often follow a similar format. To help you understand what professional help to break destructive behaviour might look like, we have provided an example of the different phases.
- Evaluation and diagnosis: Treatment usually begins with a thorough assessment and evaluation of the individual’s shopping behaviours. This includes determining how long the person has been engaging in this behaviour, its impact on their life, and any underlying mental health issues.
- Treatment planning: Based on the assessment, an individual treatment plan will be developed. This plan may include different therapy methods, support measures, and treatment goals.
- Psychotherapeutic treatment: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a common form of therapy used to treat a shopping addiction. A therapist will work to identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviours related to shopping. CBT typically includes developing strategies to manage desires, learning to manage impulses, and changing behavioural patterns.
- Follow-up and Maintenance: Long-term treatment and follow-up are often necessary to prevent a relapse. This may include regular meetings with healthcare providers and continued participation in support groups.
- Lifestyle changes: Lifestyle changes, including work, leisure and relationships, are often necessary to support long-term recovery.
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