“Shopaholic” is a term people use lightly. It can mean compulsive shopping, shopping addiction or Compulsive Buying Disorder. For some people it can cause regret, financial stress, or feelings of not being in control. CBT for compulsive shopping can help.
Common Signs of Compulsive Buying Disorder or “Shopping Addiction”
- Spending beyond what you can afford
- Regretting your purchases
- Hiding what you bought from a loved one
- Feeling compelled to buy things
- Buying things when you feel sad, angry or bored
- You’ve tried to cut back, but it hasn’t worked
We live in a North American consumer culture that encourages us to shop. Buying things can feel nurturing, can help us feel special or that we accomplished something. Also, we need to buy essentials. We all need to shop. So it’s not shopping, but over shopping due to compulsive buying that you might want help with.
MY APPROACH
- I’ll get to know you, your background, history and truly understand you.
- We figure out together what is driving your behaviour.
- Together we look at how much you shop, when and why you shop, and how it is affecting you.
- I will treat any underlying issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, self-esteem issues etc.
- We then make a plan that fits your values and budget around shopping.
- You learn CBT techniques to change habits, control your emotions and thoughts better in order to stick with your plan.
Tele CBT for “shopping addiction” can help. If you are unsure, or want to discuss your unique situation, please book a free consult.