Such thoughts and behavior generate considerable distress and impairment.
It can also seriously affect a person’s financial well-being and social relationships.
The American Psychiatric Association (APA) does not recognizecompulsive shoppingas its own mental disorder.
Verywell / Laura Porter
Because of this, there are no consistent criteria for diagnosis.
At a Glance
Compulsive shopping disorder can create major problems in a person’s life.
But shopping only provides temporary relief from their struggles.
Their inability to control their shopping eventually commonly leaves them with an overwhelming sense of guilt and shame.
But occasionaloverspendingdoesn’t mean you’re a compulsive shopper.
In fact, compulsive shopping doesn’t have anything to do with how much money is spent.
This doesn’t mean that compulsive shopping is more common among women.
It simply means that women are more likely to recognize and seek treatment for a compulsive shopping problem.
Additionally, men are more likely to view their compulsive buying as “collecting” rather than a problem.
Develop New Hobbies
Most people who compulsively shop turn to shopping when they’re bored or stressed.
You might giveyogaa try.
Ask your friend to help hold you accountable.
Pay in Cash
Give yourself a cash allowance and put the credit cards away for emergencies only.
It’s important to discuss your concerns with your loved one.
Consider consulting a therapist on your own first.
A therapist can help you make sense of your emotions and give you a better perspective on the issue.
When you approach your loved one, give a shot to come from a place of love and concern.
Shame is not only an ineffective tool but can also be harmful.
Your loved one likely feels shameful about their compulsive behavior, but recovery requires more than feelings of shame.
Further Research Needed
There is a lot of debate around how this condition should be classified.
Still, others link it to mood disorders.
In:Neuropathology of Drug Addictions and Substance Misuse.
2016;11(12):e0167365.
doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0167365
Maraz A, Griffiths MD, Demetrovics Z.The prevalence of compulsive buying: A meta-analysis.Addiction.
2010;12(2):175-185.
2016;(5)3:379-94. doi:10.1556/2006.5.2016.064
