A letter writer is worried about turning into a shopaholic.

Maybe it’s time to get some professional help, thinks our elder.

Dear EWC

Hello, I am writing because I have recently realized that I may have a shopping problem that I do not know how to deal with. This has been a problem for many, many years, but I have only just realized that it is something I do to cope with my depression, and it is causing financial problems. I feel that when I buy something, I have something to look forward to, even if it’s just a package in the mail that’s making me happy. When it arrives, I have nothing to look forward to and do it all over again. I shop impulsively which then gives me anxiety knowing I’ll have a very high bill and won’t know how to pay it, but at the moment I don’t think of it. I just want to know other ways to cope with being depressed. I don’t want to go back to self harm but I also don’t want to keep buying stuff to the point where I can’t even afford groceries. Thank you in advance

Hedwig replies

Whenever you have an obsession that interferes with your life, it is time to seek professional help. A trained therapist will be able to sit down with you and examine why you are repeating this negative behavior. You really need to look at causes before you can attempt cures. Please, get the help you need to conquer your depression with more positive behavior. Get out of this downward spiral. You have nothing to lose by seeking help, and everything to gain.  

Letter #: 429992
Category: Self-Improvement