woman with shopping bags: picture: pexels
Ever felt a rush of happiness after buying something special for yourself, even if it’s just a cosy new sweater or a treat from your favourite café? That’s retail therapy at work—the comforting lift we get from a shopping spree. But why does shopping make us feel better?
From a psychological boost to a sense of control and reward, retail therapy can be an emotional escape, even though the effects are often temporary. The Talk Space publication explains that retail therapy is the act of shopping to relieve emotional distress, triggered by emotions rather than daily needs. It is said to be a common coping mechanism, with 62% of participants buying items to treat themselves and improve their mood.
“The Pennsylvania State study showed that shopping can be a lasting mood lifter. Given most people were found to stay within their budget, overall retail therapy can have a positive effect on mood, which is what keeps us coming back.”
Psychology Today claims that people with low self-esteem may engage in self-verifying consumption, while those with higher self-esteem shop to feel better about themselves.
Compensatory shopping, where people buy to fill an emotional void, is common during stressful times, the source adds. “However, this behaviour can end up making them less happy over time, as it doesn’t address the deeper emotional issues behind their need to make purchases.”
The above source further states that retail therapy may provide temporary relief, but it doesn’t address the underlying emotional issues driving us to shop and can lead to long-term dissatisfaction, especially if linked to stress or low self-esteem.
Instead of overspending, consider healthier ways to cope, such as hobbies, exercise, or creative projects, reflect on your shopping habits and adopt small habits to improve your mental health, the mentioned publication suggests.
Also see: How to avoid counterfeit and poor-quality goods when shopping online
