Compulsive Shopping / Compulsive Buying Disorder
A pattern of chronic spending and buying that is difficult to control and ultimately results in harmful consequences. Most people occasionally splurge on things they don't need or spend to much money, but compulsive shoppers do this frequently, leading to devastating financial and emotional results. Shopping binges produce a high in compulsive shoppers, followed by a sense of guilt when they realize how much was spent. Not surprisingly, compulsive shopping may result in debt, depression and the destruction of relationships.Some signs of compulsive shopping or compulsive buying disorder include:
- Making purchases you cannot afford at the moment.
- Using shopping to feel better when feeling sad, lonely, or tired.
- Buying large numbers of items that go unused or unworn.
- Lying to others about how shopping trips or how much was bought.
- Feelings of euphoria and/or anxiety when making a purchase.
- Excessive thoughts about money.
- Shopping on borrowed or stolen money.