Shopping can be fun, but uncontrollable shopping is clearly an addiction. “Shopaholics” or “Compulsive shoppers” are unable to control their shopping habits. Much like the other addictions (alcohol, food, or drugs) people often deny or hide the fact that they have a problem. Excessive shopping can lead to financial ruin and troubled relationships.
According to Dr. Donald Black (a University of Iowa psychiatry professor) when compulsive shoppers are feeling “out of sorts,” they shop for a ” pick-me-up.” They go out and buy, to get a high, or get a “rush” just like a drug or alcohol addict.
Signs Of Shopping Addiction:
— Shopping when angry, depressed, bored, or lonely
— Getting “rush” or “feeling better” from spending
— Spending even if you know you can’t afford it
— Lying about spending / hiding evidence of purchase
— Juggling bills to get money for shopping
If you, or someone close to you is a compulsive shopper — recovery is the only option. : )
Be warned, there are a lot of sites on the web targeted to trapping compulsive shoppers, guaranteeing success and asking for your credit card. There are also plenty of “spammy sites,” chalk full of yuck! Our staff researched these sites for you.
Resources:
Debtors Anonymous: Free support group from people who understand the addiction and help to work down debt.
Shopping Addicts Support: Yahoo’s on-line moderated support group.
Yahoos Shopping Addicts Support Group.com
Recovery Connection: free nationwide private referral network or call toll free — 1 (800) 993- 3869