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Do you have a spending addiction?
Wednesday, 11 March 2009.
Originally from express article 11 March 2009
By Di from Auckland Community Alcohol and Drug Services (CADS)
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| Diana Rands from CADS. |
If you want an honest answer to the above question, ask the people you are closest to, or the ones who rely on you financially. They can give you some very accurate feedback about whether you have a spending addiction or not.
So what differentiates a person who enjoys beautiful things and loves to shop, from someone who has a spending addiction?
The key is in the word addiction. In previous columns I have defined addiction as “involving a loss of control over use, where use continues despite harm to self and others and that the substance or substances become the focal point of your life above all other things.” In this case it is just a matter of changing the word ‘substance’ to ‘spending’.
With both spending and substance use, addiction indicates a longing for the buzz that comes with the behaviour – this could be the sound of the till, the glory of picking up the tab, the status of ordering the most expensive thing on the menu etc. The substance use or spending triggers ‘feel good’ neurotransmitters, and with these chemicals floating round in your brain, reason and consequences can easily be forgotten – especially if you're paying with a credit card!
For some people spending money results in feeling: good, powerful, in control and worthy of admiration. It can have a mesmerising magnetic appeal and combined with the kudos of giving a fancy present, picking up the tab and buying the trendiest brands, it is potent stuff!
The reality with spending addiction is that people may start to conceal their spending, lying about what they spend and juggling finances in an attempt to keep up with payments and hide any debt. This can lead to feelings of guilt, embarrassment and hopelessness – not to mention homelessness when the rent can not be paid!
So here is a quick checklist for those of you who are wondering if you might have a spending addiction – or for those who think they may live with some who has.
Look out for:
- Out-of-control shopping sprees,
- Often picking up the tab for the table (even when can not afford to),
- Always buying top of the range (even when can not afford to),
- Buying the most lavish gifts,
- The need to go shopping even though the wallet's empty,
- Chronic and ongoing money problems...
If this is something you want to explore, a really good start is to contact an addiction specialist, or a switched on counsellor. The wonderful people at OUTline 09 3033584 are a good first point of call, and remember you can always contact us at CADS.
Go on – take this first step, it can not do any harm – and it won’t cost you a cent!
If you have concerns about your own or someone else's alcohol or other drug use, or if you'd like more information, contact CADS on 845 1818 or www.cads.org.nz. If you live outside Auckland contact Alcohol and Drug Helpline 0800 787 797.
> More items from Di's Drug Column
