Everyone loves getting something new, and the feeling of putting on new clothes. But, these should be sporadic treats. Some of us, however, love buying things so much that we can’t stop. However hard we try.
Do you think you may be suffering from an addiction to shopping? If so, take a look at the signs below to see if you think you might need to reach out for some help. Professionals out there like Dr. Mariyam Ahmed & Associates Registered Psychologists can help fix that urge to keep buying.
YOU HAVE A LOT OF UNOPENED ITEMS
We don’t mean that ugly knitted jumper you distant aunt sent over for your birthday. We mean items that you went out and bought that are still with their tag or unopened. This is a sign you have too much stuff; you don’t need those things.
YOU GET AN ADRENALINE RUSH WHEN BUYING
Getting that gorgeous pair of jeans you see in the window, or the latest piece of technology may feel amazing when you’re buying it. You might feel excited and almost high from purchasing as much as you can.
FOLLOWED BY REMORSEFUL FEELINGS
The anterior is often followed by remorse. You know you didn’t need what you bought, or you didn’t have the money for what you just forked out to buy. Guilt sweeps over you and you may be down in the dumps for a while after. Until you’re ready to go again, that is.
YOU BUY UNNECESSARY THINGS
If we all only bought bits we needed, we’d probably have a lot more money. But, most people can control this a majority of the time. If you are forever buying things just for the sake of it and rarely need what you bring home, then you may well have an issue you need to fix.
YOU TRY TO HIDE YOUR HABITS
Perhaps you are embarrassed about how much stuff you have and don’t want anyone else to know. You probably go shopping alone so your friends can’t see how much is going into your basket. Even still, you can’t stop!
YOU FEEL ANXIOUS WHEN YOU DON’T BUY
Even an addict needs some time off so that it doesn’t look too suspicious to others. But, those days off can make you anxious and tense. This can create friction between yourself and those closest to you. Wouldn’t you rather enjoy your time with them instead of thinking about your next fix?
SHOPPING IS A RELEASE
Often when couples fight, they will have a few hours apart and do something to decrease stress. Some may go for a run, catch up with friends, or cook something to get it out of their system. However, all you can think about in this situation is heading to the mall.
SO, WHAT DO YOU THINK?
If you are nodding to any of the above, then you may well have an addiction. The more yes’s, the worse it is. Do your research and find some techniques that can help you out. And, if all else fails, get some professional help. It may cost a bit but you’ll save so much once you curb your habit.
