9 Signs You Might Have a Shopping Addiction
It’s normal to indulge in some retail therapy now and then. But when shopping starts to interfere with your finances, relationships or daily life, it may be a red flag for something more serious: shopping addiction. Also known as compulsive buying disorder, this behavioral addiction can be emotionally and financially draining. Here are the key signs to watch for — and what you can do about them.
Make money easier. Sign up for The Penny Hoarder’s newsletter today.
You Shop to Feel Better

If you frequently turn to shopping to boost your mood or cope with stress, loneliness or boredom, that’s a potential red flag. Using purchases to regulate emotions might offer temporary relief but can lead to long-term financial and emotional consequences.
More From The Penny Hoarder: Ditch Overpriced Car Insurance Now — Save $500 Today
You Hide Your Purchases

Do you feel the need to conceal your purchases or downplay how much you spent? Hiding receipts, stashing bags in the trunk, or lying to loved ones about shopping trips may signal deeper issues with spending control.
More From The Penny Hoarder: How Credit Card Debt Works
Your Spending Habits Cause Guilt or Shame

Feelings of regret, guilt or shame after a shopping spree are common among those with shopping addiction. These emotions often point to a disconnect between your values and spending behavior—and they tend to perpetuate the cycle.
More From The Penny Hoarder: What is Debt Settlement and How Does it Work?
You Shop Even When You’re in Debt

Continuing to shop while struggling to pay bills or racking up credit card debt is a strong indicator of compulsive behavior. Shopping addiction can override logical decision-making, leading to long-term financial harm.
More From The Penny Hoarder: Free Baby Stuff for Expecting Mothers in 2025 (38 Freebies & Deals!)
You Lose Track of Time While Shopping

If a “quick trip” to the store or a five-minute scroll through online shops regularly turns into hours, it could be a sign of compulsive spending. Losing time while shopping may also point to dissociation — a common feature in behavioral addictions.
More From The Penny Hoarder: 6 Free Budgeting Templates To Help You Save In 2025
You Justify Purchases You Don’t Need

Telling yourself you “deserve it” or buying items you already own simply because they’re on sale can be rationalizations for addictive spending. These justifications can make it easier to overlook long-term consequences.
More From The Penny Hoarder: Our Picks for The Best Checking Accounts for This Month
You Experience a “High” From Shopping

Compulsive shoppers often describe a rush or high when making a purchase, followed by a crash. This chemical reward cycle is similar to what happens with other addictions, making it harder to break the habit.
More From The Penny Hoarder: The 6 Best No Annual Fee Credit Cards of 2025
You Struggle to Stick to a Budget

Creating a budget is one thing — following it is another. If you consistently blow past your spending limits despite your best intentions, it might be time to evaluate whether deeper behavioral patterns are at play.
More From The Penny Hoarder: These Companies Will Give You Food and Other Products For Free (Yes, Really)
You’ve Tried to Stop But Can’t

Have you made promises to cut back on shopping only to find yourself slipping back into old patterns? That’s a major sign of addiction. Seeking support — from a therapist, financial coach or support group — can help you regain control.
More From The Penny Hoarder: Budgeting 101: How to Budget Money
What to Do If You Think You Have a Shopping Addiction

If any of these signs feel uncomfortably familiar, don’t panic—you’re not alone. The first step is acknowledging the issue without judgment. Then, consider these actions:
- Track your spending to build awareness.
- Talk to someone you trust — a friend, partner or therapist.
- Seek professional help from a financial coach or licensed counselor.
- Use tools like budgeting apps or spending freezes to create guardrails.
Remember, shopping addiction is a behavioral issue that can be managed with the right support. Taking action now can protect your financial and emotional health down the road.
More From The Penny Hoarder: The 28 Best Side Hustles: Our Top Picks to Help You Make More Money