[foreverromantic]

This may sound not very important, but since retiring I have been purchasing a lot of items for myself from T.V. and Internet Shopping Channels, most are items like fashion jewelry which I do not really need. Considering having a talk with a psychologist to stop this. I know one thing I seem to forget about personal problems when I do this, but when the bills come..! Any advice. Thanks.

[J_9]

The easiest way to begin the process is to cut up all credit/debit cards. Counseling is a must.

If you can't buy it with cash, you don't need it.

[talaniman]

considering having a talk with a psychologist to stop this.

Do it!! he may guide you to a support group,and surprised you with how many others are in the same boat a you.

http://www.shopaholicnomore.com/

https://www.intotreatment.com/addict...12-step-rehab/

http://www.r-a.org/i-shopaholic.htm#.VXIs9M9Viko

[DoulaLC]

What else are you doing with your time? Do you find yourself feeling bored and television/internet are easy fixes?

Consider also getting out of the house and finding activities of interest. Join classes, start a garden, join a health club, volunteer.....if possible, get part time employment in something you enjoy, get together regularly with family or friends.

[Fr_Chuck]

If it is just online shopping, stop watching, have cable turned off, or limited channels.

Also yes cut up credit cards, I got rid of all of mine about 6 years ago.

[joypulv]

I hate shopping! I get weary just looking to what I really need, even online. Part of the reason is that I'm so cheap that I just have to find the best price.
I also suffer from what I call Post Purchase Depression. That moment when you realize that you just bought another dust catching, clutter-creating, burden to your possessions, AND wasted money that could be going to something else.
1- Invite a friend to early bird dinner, your treat
2- Find a good charity that has low admin costs, like Doctors without Borders
3- Get a pet! A cat is a good start and less work than a dog, but still needs food and beds and vet care. The cat will help 'fill the void' of loneliness and meaninglessness.

Shopaholics can cure themselves without expensive therapy.

[talaniman]

True that Joy, as there are less expensive alternatives to PROFESSIONAL therapy. Hard to see better ways to make yourself feel good when you are caught in the cycle of a bad habit of the quick easy fix though.

We often just think of the feel good, and seldom think of the bad feelings that follow. In that case expensive or not, any step in the right direction is needed when getting help is the priority. As we learn better, we can be more FRUGAL, and independent in the decision making for ourselves.

[Oliver2011]

Amen Joy, amen. (Full disclosure - I just finished shopping. I needed new dress pants for work. In and out 10 minutes. )

I hate shopping! I get weary just looking to what I really need, even online. Part of the reason is that I'm so cheap that I just have to find the best price.
I also suffer from what I call Post Purchase Depression. That moment when you realize that you just bought another dust catching, clutter-creating, burden to your possessions, AND wasted money that could be going to something else.
1- Invite a friend to early bird dinner, your treat
2- Find a good charity that has low admin costs, like Doctors without Borders
3- Get a pet! A cat is a good start and less work than a dog, but still needs food and beds and vet care. The cat will help 'fill the void' of loneliness and meaninglessness.

Shopaholics can cure themselves without expensive therapy.

[Luck0rN0t]

I hate shopping but I swear there is something therapeutic about those stupid shopping channels! I believe there is a psychological pull to them in the way they present an item and then talk about it, as best of friends. "Oh, I just love this color" "This will make any woman feel like a queen" "I have one in every color!", "This is one of a kind. I promise you will never see it in ANY store" and so on... it is like hanging out with a good friend and sharing compliments. It also makes you feel like you'll be in some "inner circle" if you get one of whatever it is. They are always so upbeat and positive!

Then they also employ the "500 already sold!" as if you're missing out and have a limited time to get one or it will be gone, forever! One of the best ways I distract myself from shopping channels is that I keep my laptop nearby and I look up the item on line. I read reviews, I see that I can buy the item on QVC online and often other places, as well and it reduces the feeling that I have to buy it now or it will be forever gone. Once is see it online, the overwhelming desire to buy whatever it is usually passes.

Don't forget, you can return items, even after you buy them. Usually within 30 days - so don't miss out on that. I hate, hate, hate returning things I bought, so that helps deter me from further impulse purchases. If you can picture it in a store like Wal-Mart or a thrift store - where my purchases usually end up - that helps me put in perspective how "fabulous" it actually is.

Talking to a therapist is a great idea to talk with someone and help you get to the root of the issue, as the online shopping is just a symptom of something deeper, from what you describe. I love volunteering - there is almost nothing that helping someone else & getting yourself out of your head can't make you feel better about yourself and forget your own problems.