Spontaneity can be fun, though spontaneity is vastly different from impulsivity. Impulsivity, by definition, is to “act without thinking”. While that may have some benefits, more often than not acting without thinking does not end well. Chronic impulsivity refers to persistent and excessive lack of self-regulation leading to undesirable consequences, such as overeating or overspending.

The word “oniomania” refers to “Chronic Buying Disorder (CBD)” or the irresistible urge to shop. Though there are studies to show that this can be fueled by materialism, it is more often fueled by chronic impulsivity. This behavior may be a means of changing how you are feeling, distracting from painful emotions, connected to a mood disorder such as Bipolar Disorder or even an addictive behavior. 

When Shopping May Be Compulsive

Spending more than you intend to may not necessarily be an indicator of disordered behavior, though there are warning signs to be aware of. Compulsive behavior can be dangerous. 

• Take note if the problem is escalating. According to World Psychiatry, about 5.8 percent of people in the United States are “shopaholics”. This type of disorder shopping behavior cannot be ignored. If it is caused by CBD it may not go away on its own and will likely need to be treated.
• Some experts likened CBD to addiction. Studies revealed that CBD is triggered by low levels of serotonin in the brain. Like an addiction, shopping can result in the production of more serotonin, the feel-good hormone that gives you satiation and rewards. This may be why you are motivated to do it again and again.
• There could be more going on than CBS. There are also studies that show impulse control disorder is linked to other psychological problems, including anxiety, mood disorder, substance addiction, depression, and binge eating.
• There can be serious consequences associated with compulsive buying. Countless numbers of people have experienced staggering credit card debts, broken families and relationships, troubles at work, and a host of other behavioral and emotional problems related to their compulsive buying behavior.

Stop Compulsive Spending

If you are worried that you may be a compulsive shopper it may be helpful to know the signs and symptoms of chronic impulsivity. Alternatively, you may also seek the help of a therapist who can effectively assess your symptoms and behaviors. Early diagnosis matters. Aside from being driven deeper into debt, untreated, chronic impulsivity may lead to extreme emotional pain, anxiety, depression, substance addiction, as well as relationship problems.

Like any disorder, Chronic Buying Disorder fueled by chronic impulsivity can be treated. If you suspect that you may have Compulsive Buying Disorder, make the call to Carolina Counseling Services – Southern Pines, NC. Don’t let your impulsivity get the better of you. Instead, learn to develop control with the help of a licensed, independently contracted counselor. Call CCS – Southern Pines, NC today.

Related Articles:

• Chronic Impulsivity Fueling Compulsive Buying Disorder
• How Counseling Can help you with Impulse Control
• Chronic Impulsivity: What is it?