How Not to Shop Until You Drop

Do you think Prada, Armani and Gucci are the true romance languages? But can you also find your way around a JCPenney blindfolded?

Some telltale signs you may be dealing with a shopping addiction: You go to the mall without knowing what you want and come away with bags of things you don’t need and can’t afford; your credit cards are maxed out and you frequently miss payments; you spend more time ordering “bargains” in front of the TV or online than with your family and friends.

About six percent of Americans are dealing with a shopping addiction. Many mistakenly believe mostly women are hooked on shopping, but research has shown many men are as well. Women shopaholics may purchase a dozen shoes in a week, but men have been known to stock up on three flat-screen TVs at a time (always good to have a backup in case one breaks, right?)

Whether it’s on gadgets, appliances or clothes, constant shopping that leads to debt and more debt is an unhealthy way of dealing with depression and anxiety. Like other addictions, such as gambling and overeating, the initial euphoria numbs negative feelings.

The most common advice for dealing with a shopping addiction: cut up credit cards. You can hide one for emergencies in a block of ice in the freezer. If you see something you MUST have while shopping, you’ll have to go home and wait till it thaws. If this seems too extreme, start by leaving your credit cards at home. If you must have that chartreuse cashmere sweater, make a note to come back for it. When you get home, give yourself a 48-hour window and ask yourself if you really need the item. Chances are you’ll reconsider.

Other advice: ask your friends or family for support by accompanying you to the mall to keep spending in check. Also, set up a special shopping bank account and do not go over the budget.

If you keep a log of all your purchases, you will be forced to confront the reality of how much you are spending on unnecessary merchandise. When you get the urge to shop, come up with a stress-relieving activity you can enjoy instead. Tennis lessons or yoga classes would cost less than a compulsive shopping habit.

If none of this works, it’s time to seek outside counseling and get to the bottom of the emotional needs you’re trying to deal with by shopping.