With the holiday season in full swing, many of us might find ourselves reaching for our bags much more often than usual.
For most, this is simply a touch of harmless Christmas shopping.
But one expert has detailed the early signs of spending problems and what to do when shopping crosses the line from festive excitement to compulsive habit.
Chris Meaden, a hypnotherapist with experience in trauma and anxiety, explained that there are “a number of telltale signs” that could “indicate that someone’s Christmas shopping is more problematic.”
Meaden, of Kent, who runs the Meaden Clinic, said these signs include “spending beyond your means” and “maxing out credit cards.”
He explained that this is “an indication that your spending is out of control.”
“Or if you feel compelled to shop to relieve stress, anxiety, sadness or even pain,” Mr Meaden said.
‘Do you feel guilty immediately after purchasing? That can also be a sign that it is a compulsive habit.
Chris Meaden, a hypnotherapist with experience in trauma and anxiety, explained that there are “a number of telltale signs” that could “indicate that someone’s Christmas shopping is more problematic.” In the photo: Stock image
“So you can lose track of how much you’re spending and hide your purchases or lie about your spending habits.”
Figures show spending in December increased by 29 per cent compared to a typical month in 2024, with a third of households turning to credit to finance their Christmas purchases.
Meaden explains that there are ways to keep spending under control through planning and budgeting, while compulsive spenders are more likely to be emotionally motivated.
“Budgeting is essential for conscious Christmas spending as it will give you clarity on what you can really afford,” she said.
‘It will avoid unplanned purchases and allow you to prioritize your money. Set purchasing goals and stay focused.’
He recommends that those fighting overspending stick to specific goals.
Meaden, of Kent, who runs the Meaden Clinic, said these signs include “spending beyond your means” and “maxing out credit cards.”
“For example, if your goal is to avoid carrying Christmas debt during the new year, that intention can guide your decisions and avoid impulsive purchases,” said the expert.
He added that those who overspend should recognize it “without being self-critical.”
‘Learn from it: why did you overspend? Was it emotional or poor planning? Establish a recovery plan and adjust your budget to account for it. Remember, one misstep does not define your financial habits.’
And it’s encouraging shoppers to focus on consideration rather than cost when purchasing gifts for loved ones during the holiday season.
“Don’t sacrifice your financial stability or your emotional health for Christmas,” he said.
‘Remember, dopamine and serotonin play an important role when shopping online or in store. Please keep this in mind when purchasing.
‘Are a few minutes of feeling good and excited about a purchase worth days, months, or even years of feeling guilty about spending too much?’
Meaden went on to detail some key tips for tackling compulsive spending, such as “filtering” advertising and creating an “alarm bell” in your mind “every time you feel the urge to buy something.”
Detailing the latter, he said: ‘in its own way you can take a moment to stop, pause and consider who is in charge here; you or the brand you are willing to buy because it will make you “feel good.”
‘Take control of where you spend your money and what you buy – you’ll make better decisions when you’re not stressed, so get into the habit of daily journaling, meditations or breathing techniques to keep your nervous system balanced and calm. .’