The rise of a new addiction in Britain, characterized by compulsive shopping, is raising concerns among mental health professionals. This condition, often likened to substance dependencies, triggers similar dopamine responses in the brain as illicit drugs like cocaine. Understanding its signs and seeking help can be crucial in addressing this growing issue.
Hannah Blass, now 30, exemplifies the struggles many face with shopping addiction. Her journey began in 2019 with the impulsive purchase of a pair of Adidas Stan Smith trainers for around £80. Raised in a family that could not afford luxury items, Hannah felt an exhilarating rush from buying something she could not afford. “I was a student on a budget, and I knew it wasn’t sensible of me,” she recalled. Yet, that initial thrill led to a compulsive pattern of spending, exacerbated by her evolving career in fashion marketing.
Experts estimate that approximately 5% of adults in the UK suffer from compulsive buying, a statistic that has doubled since 2016, largely attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic. During lockdowns, individuals increasingly turned to online shopping as a coping mechanism for boredom. According to Zaheen Ahmed, director of therapy at The UKAT Group, many individuals struggling with this addiction often grapple with underlying mental health issues. “Many of these people are unhappy in their lives and trying to fill a void,” he explained.
Hannah’s spending escalated to alarming levels. At the peak of her addiction, she spent over £11,000 annually on clothing while accumulating nearly £9,000 in credit card debt. Despite the financial strain, she remained unaware of the severity of her addiction. “I didn’t recognize it as a problem because I didn’t realize I was addicted,” she said, revealing the internal conflict between her spending habits and her financial reality.
The breaking point for Hannah came in 2022 when she spent nearly £700 on a pair of Prada loafers, an amount equivalent to her monthly rent. “I had no idea why I’d bought them,” she admitted, illustrating the disconnect between her purchases and her financial situation. The realization that her excessive spending jeopardized her future became undeniable when her husband, Benji, proposed in 2023. “My spending was putting everything in my life at risk,” she acknowledged.
Recognizing the signs of shopping addiction is essential for those who may be affected. Zaheen Ahmed advises individuals to reflect on their shopping habits. He poses three critical questions: Have you tried to cut down on your shopping and failed? Do you feel guilt associated with your purchases? Do you become annoyed when others question your spending? Affirmative answers to two or more of these questions could indicate a need for professional help.
Hannah’s path to recovery began with a strategy she found online called a “no buy.” This involved a commitment to refrain from purchasing clothes for three months. “I felt like I had no control over my life, and I wanted to prove to myself that I could be okay without new things,” she shared. This approach helped her recognize that her self-worth was not tied to material possessions.
Experts caution that a “no buy” strategy may not be effective for everyone. “Many patients will benefit from antidepressants,” noted Ahmed, emphasizing the importance of tailored treatment plans. Talking therapy can also play a significant role, helping individuals address the mental health challenges underlying their compulsive behaviors.
Today, Hannah has transformed her experiences into a resource for others. Through her website, The Style Audit, she assists women in overcoming overspending habits. She has successfully paid off her credit card debt and has significantly reduced her clothing purchases. “When I started to share my story online, I was really surprised at how many women were going through the same thing,” she remarked.
The prevalence of shopping addiction highlights an often-overlooked issue in contemporary society. With the rise of online shopping, many individuals may find themselves falling into similar patterns without recognizing the risks. As Hannah’s story illustrates, seeking help and understanding the psychological triggers can pave the way for recovery and healthier financial habits.
