Wed, 30 Jul 2025

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 'I was a shopping addict - it needs to be taken more seriously'

People with experience of compulsive buying say more NHS help is needed to tackle the issue.

* Lucy, a 37-year-old from West Yorkshire, spent up to 14 hours a day shopping, racking up £12,000 of debt
* She discovered she had oniomania (compulsive buying disorder) after consulting a therapist, who told her it was possible to be addicted to shopping
* The condition is estimated to affect around 5% of adults in the UK, although some studies suggest this figure may have risen to 10% since the pandemic
* Natalie, a 40-year-old from Rotherham, has what she calls her "cupboard of doom" with over 10,000 household items and has spent up to £3,000 per month on shopping
* Experts say social media is contributing to the rise in shopping addiction, with some influencers normalizing excessive spending habits
* The NHS currently offers limited support for people struggling with shopping addiction, with many calling for better understanding and treatment options.
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