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Compulsive Shopping Linked to Mental Woes

Disorder affects both sexes equally

By Colleen Barry, Newser Staff

Posted Oct 25, 2007 10:13 AM CDT

(Newser) – Nearly 6% of the population suffers from compulsive buying, which is often linked to other problems with control and mood disorders, according to research in the American Journal of Psychiatry. About the same percentage of women and men are shopaholics, and addicts are likely to be young, near the limit on their credit cards, and making less than $50,000 a year.

The problem is associated with other control problems, like compulsive gambling, as well as mood disorders, including major depression—and serious financial problems. Trials attempting to treat compulsive buying with antidepressants have produced mixed results, but some people seem to benefit. Compulsive buying is characterized by an irresistible urge to buy unnecessary, often unaffordable items that lose their appeal almost from the moment of purchase.

Two women shop. (Getty Images)

Shoppers (Getty Images)

Shopper (Getty Images)

Shopper (Magnum Photos)

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Compulsive Shopping Linked to Mental Woes

Disorder affects both sexes equally

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Compulsive Shopping Linked to Mental Woes

Disorder affects both sexes equally

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OTHER STORIES ON OUR RADAR

finances • psychiatry • antidepressant • shopping • mental illness • addiction • obsessive compulsive disorder • compulsive buying

MOST POPULAR STORIES

[ By Views ]

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More Newser Stories

Without Mental Illness, More People on Antidepressants

Study finds non-psychiatrists are increasingly prescribing antidepressants

Shrinks Single Out Next PTSD: Bitterness

Over-the-top reactions to being thwarted may signal mental illness

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Fellas reward a hard day's work with new gear

Drugs Shrinking Psychiatrists' Talk Time: Study

Cost-conscious managed care also seen behind decline

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Term goes the way of smelling salts as experts seek accuracy

About Us

Site

Newser By Users

Community

Site Maps

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More News

What is Newser?