Shopping addiction (Oniomania) is a condition where a person cannot control the urge to shop. In shopping addiction, the person buys things they don't need and repeats this behavior. They feel intense tension and restlessness before shopping, experience relief and pleasure during shopping, but then feel guilt, regret, and shame afterward.
Symptoms of shopping addiction:
- •Constantly purchasing unnecessary items
- •Restlessness and tension when unable to shop
- •Feelings of guilt and regret after shopping
- •Continuing to shop despite financial problems
- •Hiding the amount of shopping from others
- •Trying to fill emotional voids through shopping
Cognitive behavioral therapy, group therapy, and medication when necessary can be used in treating shopping addiction. Recognizing emotional triggers and developing healthy coping methods are the fundamental goals of treatment.