Shopping is a favorite activity of some people. Many of us go shopping in markets and malls. Whereas, some people prefer to shop online. Such people enjoy buying new things.
However, this shopping addiction can harm us. This addiction can cause many personal problems along with financial losses.
According to a joint research by the Institute of Psychology, Etowah Lorraine University and Nottingham Trent University, 5% of the world's population i.e. about 40 crores are victims of shopping addiction. Are you also among these 40 crore people?
We are in such a situation today relationshipLet's find out in-
- What is shopping addiction?
- 9 symptoms of addiction.
- How to get rid of it.
What is shopping addiction?
Shopping addiction is a type of behavioral addiction. In this one reluctantly spends money on things that are not needed. People suffering from stress and anxiety do this to get relief.
9 symptoms of addiction
Mental health experts use the Bergen Shopping Addiction Scale to measure shopping addiction. In which an attempt has been made to know shopping addiction through 28 questions and 9 clues. Let's understand this graphically.
Not shopping can spoil your mood
Have you ever felt like you're in a bad mood if you don't shop? Sometimes this can cause agitation and irritability.
Shopping improves mood for a while
People shop to relieve anxiety and loneliness. However, this relief is temporary and gradually turns into a habit.
Difficulty due to overspending
Due to shopping addiction, we neglect studies, jobs and daily responsibilities.
Guilt due to shopping addiction
Due to constant wasteful spending, they fall into debt trap. Due to this, the person feels guilty and becomes more upset.
Thoughts of shopping keep running in the mind
After shopping, you start planning for the next purchase. Always thinking about what to buy next time.
Difficult to control costs
People with shopping addictions try to cut down on spending, but often fail.
The limit increases
Addiction causes people to buy more often and spend more than before to feel happy.
Due to shopping addiction
Shopping is not only a necessity but also a source of solace for many people. Let's understand graphically what are the main causes of this addiction.
Internal stress is the main reason
Shopping addiction is often caused by stress. There can be many reasons for this stress. These may include lack of self-esteem, personal problems, mental health issues.
Low confidence
For people who have low self-confidence, buying a new item temporarily boosts their self-confidence.
personality traits
According to a research published in the journal Frontiers, people who have unstable temperaments, who want to please others, quickly become victims of shopping addiction.
The impact of social media
Advertisements seen on social media make us feel that we need this thing, when in fact we don't. In the year 2022, according to 'The Dark Side of Social Media', a research published in Frontiers, the use of social media increases materialistic desires.
mental health problems
Shopping addiction can be related to anxiety, depression or personality disorder. Shopping becomes a temporary means of suppressing the symptoms of these problems.
What harm can this habit do?
The habit of shopping if maintained for a long time can harm us financially. It can also cause many mental and physical problems.
Financial problems
Overspending can worsen your financial situation. Gradually you may fall into debt trap and it may be difficult to get out of it.
Sourness in relationships
Frequent arguments and financial problems due to shopping addiction can cause a rift in a relationship.
Neglecting responsibilities
This habit can hinder your work, studies and hobbies. You forget your priorities and start thinking only about shopping.
How to get rid of shopping addiction?
By adopting some habits we can get rid of shopping addiction. Let's understand these habits through graphics.
Let's understand the graphic in detail
Calculate the cost
Keep track of monthly income and expenses. Keep a certain amount of 'fun money' and don't spend more than that.
Take the 'No Spending' Challenge
Stop shopping for a few days. Spend time with your friends and family. Take up a new hobby like cycling or other exercise. Pay cash, remove credit card from smartphone.
Be grateful
Be grateful for the things you have. This can help reduce negative emotions.
Unsubscribe from newsletters
Unsubscribe from shopping malls newsletters. Because of this, ads that incite a purchase will not reach you.
Wait a few days
If you want to shop, stay for a few days. Ask yourself do you really need it? If necessary, you can buy later.
Image Credit: (Divya-Bhaskar): Images/graphics belong to (Divya-Bhaskar).
