Retail therapy–using shopping as a coping mechanism to combat feelings of frustration, sadness or stress–isn’t a new phenomenon, but it’s become much easier with the explosion of online shopping sites.
We’re constantly reminded of things we should want (and don’t have) on social media, and buying those ‘must-haves’ usually takes no more than a few clicks.
A survey conducted at Penn State University amongst a group of regular shoppers who had bought themselves a treat in the past week found that 62 percent of the purchases were made in an attempt to improve mood.
A similar study found that over half of respondents had impulsively shopped as a response to feelings of stress, anxiety or depression.
For people who feel like they aren’t in control, shopping can allow them a chance to exercise autonomy; life may be chaotic, but they can control where they go and what they buy. Whether it’s physically going to the mall or taking a short mental break to add things to their online shopping cart, shopping provides an outlet from the stresses of a typical day.
Shopping is also a mood-booster because it provides an opportunity for visualization and mental preparation. Buying a new outfit for an upcoming (or a wishful) vacation can make it feel like you’re already there while taking your teen shopping for dorm supplies can help ease the mental weight of a major lifechanging event.
The thing is, shopping is an effective coping mechanism when done in moderation, but it’s one that has the potential to be harmful in the long-term. Negative moods that lead to retail therapy tend to be associated with greater impulsivity and lack of control, and if you’re not careful, it can turn into a dangerous and costly habit.
When shopping becomes primarily about improving your mood, it can bring about a host of other problems, including debt, additional frustration and anxiety and a loss of self-control.
The next time you’re feeling the need to shop to lift your mood, try one of these healthier alternatives.
Get organized
Instead of accumulating more things, try getting rid of things that you no longer need or use. Organizing your bedroom, kitchen drawers or closets can give you that same feeling of control and confidence that shopping might and it’s much easier on your wallet. De-cluttering can be a reminder of all the things you already have–you may even find something ‘new’ that you forgot about.
Keep a gratitude journal
Becoming more thankful for what you do have can help ease the desire to seek out and buy new things. Sharing these feelings of gratitude with a friend can be especially effective for experiencing positive results.
Do a social detox
Practically any time we open an app on our phones, we’re flooded with ads and reminders of those “must-have” products we don’t have. Social media can be a significant source of stress due to the constant need to compare ourselves to others. Take a break from this world and reap the benefits.
Get your fitness on
Besides the obvious physical benefits, exercise provides a wealth of mental benefits. Thanks to the production of feel-good endorphins and chemicals released during physical activity, getting active can ease symptoms of depression and anxiety, reduce stress and boost your energy.
Remember, retail therapy can be a viable coping mechanism if it’s used sparingly, but it is not a long-term solution. For the times you do indulge, do so in a way that’s easier on your wallet.