Spending and Shopping Addiction

Spending and shopping addiction, also known as compulsive buying disorder, is characterized by an overwhelming urge to shop and spend money, often resulting in financial distress and emotional turmoil. This addiction can stem from various underlying issues, including stress, anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem.

Recognizing the signs of spending and shopping addiction is the first step toward recovery. Common indicators include:

• Excessive Buying: Regularly purchasing items that are not needed or never used.
• Financial Problems: Accumulating debt, maxing out credit cards, or hiding purchases from loved ones.
• Emotional Spending: Shopping as a way to cope with negative emotions or stress.
• Compulsive Behavior: Feeling a loss of control over shopping habits and experiencing guilt or remorse afterward.
• Interpersonal Issues: Strained relationships due to financial dishonesty or the consequences of overspending.

Compulsive spending and shopping, also known as spending and shopping addiction, involves a cycle of emotional highs and lows that can be challenging to break. Those struggling with this addiction often experience intense urges to shop, especially during moments of depression, sadness, or anger.

The cycle of spending and shopping addiction consists of preparing to make to a purchase. Preparation for spending may include making lists, compulsively looking online, researching items, or talking about shopping. People with a spending and shopping problem initially feel a “high” or “rush” from the act of shopping. This fleeting sense of gratification can quickly be replaced by deep regret, shame, or embarrassment after a spending and shopping spree. These negative feelings often lead to more emotional distress, perpetuating a harmful cycle of compulsive spending and shopping.

For some, compulsive spending and shopping are part of online platforms. Sprees on sites like Amazon.com can be just as devastating as in-person shopping. The ease and convenience of online shopping can lead to impulsive purchases at any time of day or night, often resulting in significant financial consequences.

• Accessibility: The ability to shop 24/7 increases the risk of impulsive buys.
• Secrecy: Shopping from home can hide the extent of the problem from others.
• Financial Impact: Quick and frequent purchases can lead to substantial debt.

• At Campbell Recovery Services, we offer a multi-faceted approach to help individuals overcome spending and shopping addiction. Our comprehensive treatment programs address both the emotional and practical aspects of the addiction, guiding you toward a healthier, more balanced life.

  1. Assessments: Assessments are crucial for shopping and spending addiction as they help identify the severity of the addiction, underlying triggers, and appropriate treatment strategies for effective recovery.
  2. Individual Therapy: Our therapists work one-on-one with you to identify the root causes of your addiction and develop personalized strategies for managing urges and triggers.
  3. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps you recognize and change negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with shopping addiction. Develop healthier coping mechanisms and decision-making skills.
  4. Financial Counseling: Work with our counselors to set limits and create a spending plan that helps establish a sustainable financial plan for the future.
  5. Couples and Family Therapy: Involving partners and family members can help rebuild trust and improve communication, creating a supportive home environment for your recovery.