Strategies For Controlling A Purchase Addiction

Controlling a buying addiction is very challenging for some people. Those who like to shop sometimes have a hard time controlling their impulse to buy things they do not need. They act because it helps them control their anxiety. Thus, compulsive purchases become a very unhealthy management mechanism.

Almost immediately after the relief triggered by their purchase, a person with the Compulsive Buying Disorder (CBD) usually experiences intense guilt and discomfort. Consequently, their anxiety returns with full force, and sometimes even worse than before. This is a vicious spiral that can significantly harm the individual and those close to them. This is why we want to share some strategies that can help deal with the problem.

Characteristics of buying addiction

Compulsive shopping tends to be related to impulse control disorders. Purchase addiction is also known as oniomania and can be related to mood disorders, eating disorders and personality disorders. The most prominent characteristics of a purchase addict are:

• purchase of redundant and unnecessary items
• a feeling of worry about not being allowed to own the item
• insomnia triggered by obsessions regarding buying the product
• an uncontrollable desire to act
• a feeling of immediate satisfaction and relief from unpleasant symptoms when a purchase is made
• feelings of guilt and dissatisfaction after the purchase’s novelty has subsided.

Having the desired items gives an instant satisfaction. But as we mentioned above, a person with a buying addiction often feels embarrassed or guilty about not being able to control their impulse to buy something they did not need. The debt is strengthened if the purchase does not fit within the budget or does not agree with the idea of ​​oneself (self-concept dissonance).

The feeling that they are doing something wrong causes them to hide their behavior. Sometimes they lie about where the product comes from and how much it actually cost. The resulting shame of being deceived can trigger anxiety and lead to even more shopping. The lust for the relief they feel when they buy something is overwhelming and overshadows the ensuing guilt and shame. It is a vicious circle that is difficult to break.

Emotions associated with shopping and long-term consequences

Before they go shopping, people with oniomania feel extremely uncomfortable. Buying items is the only thing that provides relief. As a result, they consider procurement to be the “magic” solution to their problems.

However, as we have explained, this solution has consequences. On the one hand, a purchase dependency causes significant debt in the long run, which triggers more shopping. These vicious cycles are present in all addictions. Compulsive shoppers also build up a tolerance over time, which means they have to buy more each time to get the same feeling of relief. Another factor is that compulsive shoppers can quickly get into financial trouble. They may need to borrow or sell some of their belongings to get enough money to continue trading.

Strategies for controlling a buying addiction

Above all, psychological therapy is the key to helping the individual control their habits. A therapist may pay special attention during periods of increased risk. For example, when someone with a shopping addiction spends a lot of time at home with internet access. It is much more difficult to control forced purchases online due to the availability and variety of goods. Paying for things online is also a contributing factor as it is easy to forget that you are spending real money.

It is also important for family members to understand the symptoms of this disorder. They can play a very important role in helping their loved ones deal with the addiction. Otherwise, there is a risk that the family itself will be a source of unpleasant feelings and impressions. For example, if you find that your partner spends much more than your budget allows, it is difficult not to blame them for the family’s financial problems. Directing guilt and shame towards the addict does not always help, but on the contrary can in some situations become a catalyst for even more shopping.

Here are some guidelines for controlling a buying addiction:

Avoid online transfers and debit cards

Paying by physical means helps increase awareness of how much you are spending. It is more difficult to hand over a stack of banknotes than a credit card. As a result, an immediate solution to forced purchases is to only have access to gift cards. That way, you can only spend what you plan to spend, while still being able to shop relatively freely in an increasingly cash-free environment.

Set a ceiling for monthly expenses

Plan a budget for optional purchases. Avoid rewarding yourself by increasing this amount. It’s great to celebrate when you reach your goals. But if you have a shopping addiction, that celebration is not about buying more. Instead, share your goals with another person and enjoy the confirmation they give you when you reach them.

If you’re going to a mall, take public transportation

This makes you think twice before you buy too much. If you feel the urge to make a purchase, you need to spend more time and it will be less convenient. The thought of waiting in line and standing in crowds can be enough to discourage you from making unnecessary purchases.

Track your expenses

Write down your expenses at the end of the week (or month). This can help you become more aware of how much money you are spending on unnecessary items. You will also notice what things you buy when you feel down.

Only go out with enough money to buy only what you need

Only allow yourself to take exactly the amount you need for necessary items. That way, you can not buy anything extra. Reflecting on what is important and not is always good. Think about the fact that when you are in a bad mood, it is easy to feel that the things you want to buy are “essential”.

It is not easy to control a buying addiction. However, if you do not try to solve the problem, it can control your life. It can also affect your relationships with your loved ones. Psychological therapy can help you get out of the vicious circle.