How to conquer your
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shopping addiction
£ Compulsive spending can lead to psychological problems, relationship difficulties, and serious debt. If you find it hard to resist temptation, here are some strategies to help control your urge to splurge Writing | Wendy Gregory Illustrating | Rosan Magar
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ddiction is defined as a compulsive engagement in rewarding behaviour, despite adverse consequences. A bit of retail therapy might not be the first thing that springs to mind when you hear this, but thanks to apps, instant pay, and targeted advertising, shopping is easier than ever, and most of us occasionally make impulse
buys – especially during the sales. Often, we regret it when we get home, realising we’ve wasted money on something we don’t need. But for an addict, shopping can be used to avoid feelings of depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, or boredom. The act of buying something, in a shop or online, produces a surge of adrenaline and dopamine, making it feel
exciting and pleasurable. It can also relieve anxiety and stress, but only temporarily. Soon after, the shopping addict is likely to experience guilt and shame, leading to further low mood and anxiety. As with all addictions, it’s usually a secretive activity. There will be a progressive loss of control, and increasing compulsive buying, even though the addict knows it is causing them problems.
