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Oniomania, or compulsive buying addiction, is characterised by an uncontrollable urge to shop, often leading to excessive spending and financial strain. Unlike casual shopping, this addiction can cause significant personal, social, and financial problems, affecting one’s quality of life.
Compulsive shopping addiction isn’t yet formally recognised as a clinical disorder, but its symptoms resemble other treatable issues, such as managing difficult emotions and controlling impulses.
Obsession with buying unnecessary items
Regularly overspending without acknowledging limits
Spending excessive time researching and shopping for unneeded things
Chronic shopping far beyond the occasional spree or sales event
Struggling to resist purchasing unnecessary items
Hiding purchases or the problem, like having secret credit cards
Facing financial difficulties due to uncontrolled shopping
Experiencing work and relationship problems from deceit, secrecy, time away from work or home, and increasing self-isolation
It’s estimated that around
5% of Australians exhibit
traits of compulsive
shopping
The majority of individuals
affected by compulsive
shopping are female
More than five million
households are partaking in
online shopping each
month
Common triggers for
compulsive shopping
include boredom, stress,
and the desire for a
temporary emotional high
Compulsive shopping, also known as Oniomania, is a challenging condition that affects many people. So, what does the latest research say about the most effective treatments for this behavioural addiction?
Research highlights that a combination of cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and medication is often the most effective way to tackle compulsive shopping. CBT focuses on identifying and changing the harmful thought patterns and behaviours that lead to compulsive buying. This type of therapy helps individuals understand the emotional triggers behind their shopping habits, such as stress, a need for immediate gratification, or feelings of low self-worth. By addressing these issues, CBT provides practical tools and strategies for more mindful spending and healthier coping mechanisms.
On the medication front, antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can play a supportive role, especially when there are additional mental health concerns like depression or anxiety. These medications can help alleviate symptoms, making it easier for individuals to participate in therapy and work through their compulsive shopping behaviours. However, medication is usually most effective when combined with CBT, as it addresses both the psychological and behavioural aspects of compulsive shopping.
But what does the research say about compulsive shopping itself? Compulsive shopping is considered a behavioural addiction where shopping becomes a means of coping with emotional issues. People with this condition often experience intense urges to shop, leading to purchases they can’t afford and feelings of guilt or shame. This behaviour is more than just excessive spending; it’s about using shopping as a way to manage emotions or stress. Therefore, understanding and addressing these underlying issues is crucial for effective treatment.
In summary, the best approach to treating compulsive shopping involves a combination of cognitive-behavioural therapy to address the psychological triggers and medication to manage symptoms. By tackling both the emotional and behavioural aspects, individuals can work towards a healthier relationship with spending and improved overall mental health. If you or someone you know is struggling with compulsive shopping, consider reaching out to a mental health professional to create a personalised treatment plan.
*Source: Update on treatment studies for compulsive buying-shopping disorder: A systematic review – National Library of Medicine
Set a clear budget for yourself and follow it. Make a shopping list and avoid impulse buys by giving yourself time to think before purchasing.
Discover new hobbies or activities that can provide a sense of satisfaction similar to shopping. This can help reduce the urge to buy.
Our Psychologists are highly qualified with Masters or Doctorate degrees in Clinical Psychology. They
use Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), the gold standard for many psychological issues, along with
other evidence-based treatments like Mindfulness and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT).