Shopping is something that most people do on a regular basis, whether it’s for necessities or for pleasure. However, for some individuals, shopping can become an addiction. Shopping addiction, also known as compulsive buying disorder, is a process addiction that can have negative consequences on an individual’s financial, emotional, and mental well-being. This blog will discuss what shopping addiction is, the causes of this disorder, the signs of a process disorder, and how to stop a shopping addiction.
Contact us at 888.450.2153 to learn more about our shopping addiction program.
What Is a Shopping Addiction?
Shopping addiction is a behavioral addiction that is characterized by a compulsive need to shop and spend money, regardless of the consequences. It is also known as compulsive buying disorder or oniomania. Shopping addiction is a process addiction, which means that it is a behavioral addiction that is not related to substance abuse.
Individuals with a shopping addiction may experience intense feelings of pleasure or excitement when shopping and may feel a sense of relief from negative emotions when shopping. However, this pleasure is often short-lived, and individuals with a shopping addiction may experience guilt, shame, or anxiety after shopping sprees.
Causes of Shopping Addiction
The exact causes of shopping addiction are not known, but there are several factors that may contribute to the development of this disorder. One of the main causes is a lack of emotional regulation. Individuals with a shopping addiction may use shopping as a way to cope with negative emotions such as stress, anxiety, or depression.
Additionally, shopping addiction may be related to other mental health disorders, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or hoarding disorder. Individuals with these disorders may be more likely to develop shopping addiction.
Social and cultural factors may also play a role in the development of shopping addiction. Living in a society that values material possessions and consumerism may make individuals more vulnerable to developing shopping addiction.
Signs of a Process Disorder
If you are unsure whether or not you or someone you know has a shopping addiction, there are several signs to look out for. Some of the signs of shopping addiction include:
- Feeling a sense of excitement or pleasure while shopping
- Spending more money than intended when shopping
- Feeling guilty or ashamed after a shopping spree
- Shopping to cope with negative emotions such as stress, anxiety, or depression
- Hiding purchases from others
- Feeling like shopping is out of control
- Neglecting other responsibilities such as work, school, or family obligations in order to shop
If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, it may be time to seek help to stop the shopping addiction.
How to Stop a Shopping Addiction
Stopping a shopping addiction can be challenging, but it is necessary. Here are some tips for how to stop a shopping addiction:
- Acknowledge the problem – Admitting that there is a problem can be difficult, but it is necessary in order to move forward.
- Identify triggers – This may include negative emotions such as stress or anxiety, or it may be related to certain situations, such as being in a mall or browsing online shopping sites.
- Develop coping strategies – This may include finding healthy ways to manage stress, such as exercise or meditation, or finding other activities to replace shopping, such as volunteering or taking up a new hobby.
- Set a budget – Setting a budget can be helpful in curbing compulsive shopping. Decide on a set amount of money that can be spent on shopping each week or month, and stick to it.
- Seek professional help – If the shopping addiction is severe and is affecting your mental health and well-being, it may be necessary to seek professional help.
It may also be helpful to seek support from a group or community of individuals who are going through similar experiences. It is possible to overcome a shopping addiction with the right support and resources.
Experiencing Signs of a Process Disorder? Northpoint Washington Can Help
Northpoint Washington provides a range of programs and services to help individuals overcome addiction, including drug rehab, alcohol detox, dual diagnosis treatment, and one-on-one counseling. We also offer group therapy and strength-based therapy, which can be helpful for individuals struggling with a shopping addiction.
At Northpoint Washington, individuals receive quality care in a close-knit community that provides a safe and supportive environment to work through the challenges of addiction recovery. Contact us at 888.450.2153 to learn more.