The Effects of Shopping on Mental Health — The Issue. (2024)

FAQs

The Effects of Shopping on Mental Health — The Issue.? ›

The Effects of Shopping on Mood

Dopamine is a chemical released in the brain that makes us feel good. Dopamine lasts even past the act of the purchase. The anticipation also releases dopamine such as when window shopping or adding items to an online cart. The distraction associated with retail therapy helps relieve a bad mood.

Addiction. It is believed that about 6% of Americans have a shopping addiction; of the 6% 90% are women. To a shopping addict trips to the mall become the main way to cope with stress, even when it is having a negative impact on the rest of their life. The addiction will affect their relationships and finances.

In fact, researchers from Northwestern University coined the term “enclothed cognition” to describe the influence that clothes have on the wearer's psychology. This essentially means that the clothes we wear influences how we feel, think and perceive ourselves, as well as others.

"Retail therapy" is one method of stress relief that many people use consciously or unconsciously—it's the act of buying yourself a little something to boost your mood when you're feeling low, and it may be more common than you think.

When we shop or spend money, our brains release neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters include dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, and endorphins, which play a role in motivation, happiness, reward, and pleasure. This is why activities like shopping can be potentially addictive because it feels good.

You may fear making a mistake or being scrutinized by other people because of your purchase choices. Even simply being noticed by another person may severely trigger someone with Social Anxiety Disorder, causing extreme distress.

Dopamine Rush

Researchers at Stanford found that when you see pictures of items you'd like to buy, a region of your brain with dopamine receptors is activated. In general, dopamine receptors are activated when you experience something new, exciting or challenging.

The act of shopping provides individuals with a sense of control and autonomy over their choices and preferences. This empowerment can translate into improved self-confidence and a more positive outlook on life. The act of purchasing desired items can also evoke a sense of accomplishment.

It is important to note that occasional impulsive purchases or enjoying shopping as a recreational activity are not inevitably indicative of a shopping addiction. Although, if these behaviors become excessive and disruptive and result in negative consequences, it may be something to worry about.

How does clothing affect the brain? ›

The idea is that certain garments can trigger a release of dopamine in our brains when worn, making us feel good and even more confident. Clothing with bright or bold colors is thought to be especially effective because they have been proven to attract attention and boost self-esteem.

This cycle can lead to: Anxiety and stress: the pressure to keep up with new trends can be overwhelming, leading to anxiety and stress about keeping your wardrobe up to date. Low Self-Esteem: Being inundated with influencers' perfect homes, clothes, and lifestyles can make us feel like we don't measure up.

If you're feeling low, then a baggy sweatshirt feels comforting. On the flip side, your mood could change depending on what you pull out from your wardrobe. For instance, when you're blue, some bright, happy colours and stylish accessories might lift your spirits – a concept called 'dopamine dressing'.

PTSD: Those who have PTSD, especially if it's related to childhood abuse or experiencing extreme poverty, may use shopping to improve their self-esteem or ensure they don't ever have to lack for things again.

Shopping Sprees

For some people who are depressed, it is not uncommon for compulsive buying -- in stores or on the Internet -- to serve as a distraction or self-esteem booster. But "retail therapy" is a short-lived high because it doesn't address underlying depression.

In small, manageable doses it can soothe the soul. Shopping isn't a problem when it's done in moderation, just like moderate use of alcohol.” The trouble is when retail therapy prevents us from paying our bills on time, breaking our budgets, lying and/or hiding purchases, and feeling guilty or shame.

Shopping addiction can substantially harm a person's life, including their relationships and financial well-being. Individuals who struggle with a shopping addiction will often experience feelings of excitement or pleasure while shopping. These feelings can temporarily relieve feelings of stress, anxiety, or boredom.

Going shopping is full of unpredictability, sensory overload, and interactions with strangers. For example, when you go to the grocery store there is uncertainty over parking, crowds, whether or not the store will have what you need, food choices, spending money, and how long you'll have to wait in a checkout line.