Psychological Test: Do You Have "Compulsive Shopping Disorder"? "Compulsive shopping" is more commonly known as "compulsive shopping disorder." This condition is more prevalent among women, affecting 5%-10% of the population, with the highest incidence among women aged 20-30. So, how can you tell if you have compulsive shopping disorder? Read on to find out.
"Compulsive shopping," often termed "shopping addiction," primarily affects women, with prevalence rates reaching 5%-10%, most commonly among those aged 20-30. If shopping is intended to relieve stress but instead leaves you feeling more depressed afterward, you may suspect you have "shopping addiction." Japan's Health Encyclopedia website provides a self-assessment test to determine if you suffer from "shopping addiction."
Lack of interest in purchased items
Dr. Tenpei Otsubo, Lecturer in Psychiatry at Showa University School of Medicine, explains that compulsive shopping manifests in several key ways: experiencing shopping urges multiple times weekly, accompanied by persistent psychological discomfort if not acted upon;Once purchased, an intense emotional high occurs, accompanied by a sense of pleasure akin to feeling like a queen; yet upon returning home, one laments, "Why did I buy this?" Simultaneously, there is genuine disinterest in the purchased items, which are subsequently ignored. "These are all clear symptoms of compulsive shopping disorder," Dr. Otsubo states.
Women predominantly suffer from compulsive shopping disorder, often as a coping mechanism for stress. The critical issue is that repeated episodes not only fail to improve mood but may worsen it, triggering self-blame and potentially escalating into depression.
"Once this psychological state combines with depression, mental instability intensifies, potentially leading to suicidal risks. From another perspective, it may cause excessive credit card debt leading to bankruptcy, or even illegal acts like theft or robbery."
Compulsive shopping disorder requires treatment; self-assessment can help identify it.
If you suspect you have mild or severe compulsive shopping disorder, early intervention is best."If you are certain you have this psychological disorder, you should promptly visit a hospital's psychiatric department to obtain proper treatment. If you are only at the stage of suspicion, you may consider taking a self-assessment to determine your condition."
Self-Assessment for "Compulsive Shopping Disorder"
You are addicted to shopping and cannot break free (e.g., wanting to relive a past shopping experience, making plans for the next shopping trip, resorting to any means to obtain money for shopping);
Purchasing increasingly expensive items to achieve greater pleasure and excitement;
Making repeated unsuccessful attempts to suppress shopping urges, reduce spending, or stop shopping altogether;
Using shopping as an escape from problems or to alleviate negative emotions (e.g., listlessness, guilt, anxiety, depression);
When unable to shop due to circumstances, frequently finding excuses to purchase the missed items later;
Lying to family, doctors, or others to conceal compulsive shopping;
Engaging in illegal activities like fraud, theft, embezzlement, or prostitution to obtain shopping funds;
Losing relationships, jobs, or academic standing due to shopping addiction, or being pushed to the brink of danger;
Borrowing money from others to desperately salvage the financial ruin caused by compulsive shopping.
(If five or more of the above apply, a diagnosis of "compulsive shopping disorder" can be confirmed.)
Regarding treatment, Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are relatively effective. "Medication can improve 70-80% of symptoms, though treatment requires 3-6 months. Thorough treatment is crucial," stated Dr. Otsubo.
In daily life, consciously cultivate interests beyond shopping to lead a fulfilling life, which effectively prevents compulsive shopping. Simultaneously, "broadening one's horizons" is another effective strategy.