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Understanding Compulsive Buying Behaviours

Shopping addiction, commonly known as shopaholism, is characterized by compulsive buying behavior and a lack of control over one's shopping habits. It is a behavioral addiction driven by the need to feel good and avoid negative emotions, such as anxiety and depression.

Shopping Addiction

Shopping addiction, or shopaholism, involves compulsive buying as a way to cope with negative emotions and achieve a sense of euphoria. Individuals with shopping addiction may experience overwhelming urges to shop, often resulting in unnecessary purchases and financial strain. This addiction can take various forms, such as compulsive shopping, bargain hunting, or collecting items. Similar to other addictive behaviors, shopping addiction can lead to significant problems in multiple areas of life, including financial difficulties and strained relationships.

Signs and Symptoms of Shopping Addiction:

People with shopping addiction may exhibit several signs and symptoms, including experiencing euphoria while shopping, feeling overwhelmed by the urge to buy, making unnecessary purchases, and hiding their shopping behavior from others. Emotional symptoms may include spending beyond one's means, shopping as a reaction to negative emotions, and harming relationships due to excessive spending.

Adverse Effects of Shopping Addiction:

Short-Term and Long-Term Effects: The short-term effects of shopping addiction may initially feel positive, but they are often accompanied by anxiety or guilt. Over time, shopping addiction can lead to financial problems, overwhelming debt, and strained personal relationships. Individuals may resort to extreme measures, such as maxing out credit cards or taking out loans, to support their shopping habits, leading to long-term financial instability and interpersonal conflicts.

Treatment for Shopping Addiction

  • Self-help organisations

  • Therapy: Behaviour therapy, cognitive behaviour therapy

  • Medications: Consultation with a psychiatrist specialized in addiction treatment

  • Treatment programs: In-treatment and outpatient programs focusing on family involvement, individualized approaches, 12-step programs, and aftercare

Why Choose PRC Recovery for Shopping Addiction Rehabilitation?

We are a registered treatment center specializing in addictive disorders, offering individualized treatment based on international standards. Our approach includes family involvement, individualized treatment plans, 12-step programs, and aftercare to ensure sustained long-term recovery.

Resources on Shopping Addiction

Please note that the information provided here is for informational purposes only, and individuals seeking advice or assistance should contact us or consult with a healthcare professional or relevant authorities. 


Shopping Addiction: Explore the Wikipedia page on shopping addiction to understand its characteristics and impact. 

Shopping Addiction: Learn about shopping addiction and its effects on mental health from Verywell Mind. 

Shopping Addiction: PsychGuides provides information on shopping addiction, its behaviors, and treatment options. 

Signs of Shopping Addiction: Discover the signs of shopping addiction and find community support on the Addiction Center website. 

Shopping Addiction: Healthline offers insights into shopping addiction, its causes, symptoms, and treatment options.

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Shopping Addiction Rehab Near Me

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