What is Shopping Addiction
Understanding Shopping Addiction. Signs and Patterns
Shopping addiction is also known as compulsive buying disorder or oniomania. It is a behavioral addiction where a person feels a persistent, uncontrollable urge to shop or spend money, often as a way to cope with emotional distress. It can lead to financial problems, strained relationships, and emotional turmoil, despite temporary highs after purchases.
At InnerLife Recovery, we focus on the emotional triggers behind compulsive buying and help individuals break the cycle to regain control of their finances, mental health, and life. Our international team is here to help you or your loved one begin the journey to recovery.
Many compulsive shoppers:
- Feel guilty or anxious after shopping, but continue to do it
- Shop to relieve stress, boredom, sadness, or loneliness
- Chase the emotional “high” of making a purchase
- Hide purchases or lie about spending
- Buy items they don’t need or can’t afford
Online Self-Test
Understanding the signs of shopping addiction is the first step toward reclaiming control of your life. To support you on this journey, we’ve developed a free and confidential online self-assessment. This quick test can help you evaluate your habits and determine whether you may be facing a problem.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Shopping Addiction
Behavioral Signs:
- Shopping as a habitual coping mechanism
- Buying unnecessary or duplicate items
- Feeling a rush or high when shopping, followed by guilt
- Hiding receipts or packages from family or partners
- Constant thoughts about shopping or the next purchase
Emotional Symptoms:
- Anxiety or distress when unable to shop
- Guilt, shame, or regret after spending
- Low self-esteem tied to appearance or material possessions
- Mood swings related to spending habits
- Emotional emptiness filled temporarily by buying things
Financial and Relational Impact:
- Credit card debt or overdrawn accounts
- Frequent arguments about money
- Neglected bills or financial responsibilities
- Borrowing money to continue shopping
- Loss of trust in relationships due to secret spending
Short-Term and Long-Term Effects
Short-term effects can include:
- Relief or pleasure followed by guilt
- Impulsive purchases that are quickly regretted
- Hidden debt and stress over spending
- Avoidance of financial responsibilities
Long-term effects may include:
- Serious financial debt or bankruptcy
- Strained or broken relationships
- Anxiety, depression, or emotional instability
- Damage to self-esteem and personal identity
- Possible legal or credit issues
Treatment for Shopping Addiction
While shopping addiction can affect anyone, certain factors may increase the risk of developing the disorder. These include, underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, or low self-worth.
At InnerLife Recovery, we offer evidence-based, holistic treatment to help individuals understand the root of their addiction and build lasting change. We focus on the emotional, psychological, and behavioral roots of the addiction.
Choose InnerLife Recovery Today
When you choose InnerLife Recovery, you’re choosing a team of professionals that’s fully invested in your long term recovery. We want what’s best for you and provide all the tools you need to beat your struggles by providing the best treatment for shopping addiction.
In addition, our team possesses over 100 years of combined experience in addiction. Each individual works towards a common goal: your recovery. From licensed clinical psychologists, doctors and psychiatrists to therapists, yoga teachers, personal trainer and an excellent chef. Every member of our team will provide key skills and techniques that directly impact your recovery and improve your chances of long term success, both during your stay with us and beyond.
If you or a loved one are struggling with this behavioural addiction, you are not alone. Contact us today, we are here to support you.
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Contact us today for a private and confidential consultation. We are here to support you. Learn more about how our exclusive rehab center in Spain can help you reclaim your Inner Life through our comprehensive and tailored treatments for addiction, mental health and eating disorders. Embrace a brighter future now with InnerLife Recovery.