Compulsive buying disorder (CBD), also known as oniomania, is a recognized behavioral addiction and mental health condition characterized by an obsessive preoccupation with shopping and a loss of control over purchasing behaviors. The behavior is driven by a need to relieve negative emotions like anxiety or depression, rather than by a desire for the items themselves. This can lead to severe financial distress, relationship conflict, and feelings of shame.
According to research, the prevalence of compulsive buying in developed nations is estimated to be around 5% of the adult population. A 2020 review in the journal Current Psychiatry Reports noted that the shift to e-commerce and digital payment methods has exacerbated the condition for many, making it easier to engage in the behavior discreetly and impulsively.
Treatment typically involves cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which helps individuals identify triggers and develop healthier coping mechanisms. In some cases, antidepressants may be prescribed to address underlying mood disorders. Financial counseling is also a critical component of recovery to manage accrued debt and establish spending controls.
