A little retail therapy may feel good, but you can get too much of a good thing. Sunnybrook’s Dr. Peggy Richter, who specializes in the treatment and research of OCD and related disorders, points out the red flags of shopping addiction.
Compulsive shoppers. It’s estimated that about 6% of people are compulsive shoppers, characterized by:
- shopping habits leading to debts that can’t be paid
- shopping becoming a top priority
- shopping not based on necessity
- when a loved one says it’s a problem
- buying more than can be used (ie. lots of extras that just cause clutter or are given away)
Shopping tips. Some tips to help:
- be aware of the problem
- set limits on spending
- take inventory of what you have before going out to shop
- only go shopping with a list
- only bring enough cash to pay for the items you need
Managing stress. Dr. Richter also advises you address the underlying reasons for stress, which can lead to less control over spending urges. Some tips:
- get enough sleep
- exercise regularly
- take time to see friends and family
Next steps. People who are more prone to compulsive shopping may have a higher release of the pleasure-inducing transmitter dopamine. In some cases, compulsive shopping may be an indicator of another psychiatric condition, such as compulsive hoarding, bipolar affective disorder or issues with impulsivity.
Some may benefit from seeing a psychologist or psychiatrist, or even by taking medication prescribed by a doctor who has expertise in this area. If you’re worried, talk to your family doctor first.
