This is related to feelings of insignificance or loss of power and is characterized by frequent buying. It is also linked to other impulse control disorders like sex addiction or gambling addiction. People with such disorders may even have blackout episodes where they don’t even remember buying something.
Signs of impulsive buying
The following are behaviors to watch out for if you suspect yourself or a loved one of having a shopping addiction:
- Difficulty resisting buying unnecessarily
- Spending time researching items that are not needed
- Financial difficulties
- Disruption of work, school, or home life due to uncontrollable spending
Curbing shopping impulses
Using retail therapy as coping mechanism can become a serious problem. But when it does, it is usually caused by underlying issues. Therapy and joining support groups can help you curb this bad habit, while addressing the root causes.
A study suggested the role of moderate thinking in staying on top of impulse buying. Moderate thinking refers to the practice of pondering the situation from different perspectives. This highlights the need to avoid extremes and opt for moderation. The study also showed that using moderate thinking helped a person achieve some measure of self-control.
Key Takeaway
Retail therapy as coping mechanism is effective because of the effect it has on the brain. It produces dopamine, which spurs feelings of joy and satisfaction. Since the pandemic began, online shopping skyrocketed. While there’s nothing wrong with rewarding or treating oneself through shopping, it’s important to make sure it doesn’t become a destructive habit.
Learn more about a Healthy Mind here.
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