Is My Mom's Excessive Buying a Mental Health Concern?

Do I need to see a doctor for this?

My mother has a tendency to buy in bulk, regardless of what it is.
Whenever she sees something on sale that she likes, she tends to purchase a large quantity.
As a result, one of the rooms in our house is so cluttered that it's difficult to walk through.
She often forgets what she has already bought, and when she realizes she needs something, she starts buying in bulk again.
This behavior has been ongoing since my mother was young and continues to this day.
She fears being scolded by my father for bringing home so many items, so she keeps stuffing them into the room.
Is this considered a disorder, or is it simply a result of stress? *There are no debts or credit card issues in the household.*

kendo, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/08/13

Dr. Wang Chongren reply Psychiatry

Dear Kendo,
Whether something is considered normal or indicative of a mental disorder is often relative.
Your mother's purchasing behavior has become a part of her personality; it is a habitual way for her to cope with internal stress and may also reflect long-standing emotional issues.
She may be unaware of why she behaves this way.
It appears that her behavior has already caused harm to herself and her family.
It may be worth considering taking her to see a psychiatrist, but it is important to encourage her motivation to seek help.
The Tainan City Hospital cares about your health.

Reply Date: 2006/08/13

More Info

Your mother's excessive buying behavior raises significant concerns regarding her mental health. This pattern of compulsive shopping, often referred to as "oniomania" or compulsive buying disorder, can be indicative of underlying psychological issues. While it may seem like a simple habit, the implications of such behavior can be profound, affecting not only her well-being but also the dynamics within your family.

From what you've described, your mother exhibits a compulsive need to purchase items, often in large quantities, which she may not even remember buying. This forgetfulness can be a sign of cognitive decline or emotional distress. The fact that she feels compelled to hide her purchases from your father suggests an awareness of the problematic nature of her behavior, yet she continues to engage in it. This cycle of buying and hiding can lead to significant clutter and emotional distress, both for her and for the family.

It's important to consider that compulsive buying can stem from various factors, including emotional issues such as anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem. For some individuals, shopping serves as a temporary escape from stress or negative feelings. In your mother's case, her behavior has persisted over many years, which may indicate that it is more than just a response to current stressors. It could be a long-standing coping mechanism that has become maladaptive.

Moreover, the fact that she has a history of emotional issues, as indicated by her tendency to hide purchases and her fear of your father's reaction, suggests that her buying behavior may be a way to manage her emotions. This could be exacerbated by any underlying cognitive decline, particularly if she has experienced changes in her memory or logical reasoning abilities, as seen in some older adults.

Given these complexities, it would be beneficial for your mother to undergo a comprehensive evaluation by a mental health professional. A psychiatrist or psychologist can assess her behavior in the context of her overall mental health and provide a diagnosis if necessary. Treatment options may include therapy, which can help her explore the emotional triggers behind her shopping habits, and medication, if deemed appropriate.

In the meantime, there are several strategies you can employ to help your mother. Encouraging her to engage in alternative activities that provide fulfillment and joy can be beneficial. This could include hobbies, social activities, or volunteering, which can help shift her focus away from shopping. Additionally, setting boundaries around her spending, such as limiting access to shopping channels or creating a budget, may help reduce the impulse to buy excessively.

It's also essential to approach the situation with empathy and understanding. Open communication about your concerns, framed in a supportive manner, can help her feel less defensive and more willing to consider seeking help. If possible, involving other family members in this conversation can provide a united front, making it clear that her well-being is a shared concern.

In conclusion, your mother's excessive buying behavior is likely a mental health concern that warrants attention. By seeking professional help and implementing supportive strategies, you can assist her in addressing this issue and improving her overall quality of life.

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