Compulsive shopping, also known as oniomania, is officially recognized as a disorder by the World Health Organization (WHO), akin to gambling addiction.
In oniomania, the act of purchasing takes precedence, often generating a sense of excitement similar to binge eating. This behavior is exacerbated by aggressive marketing tactics, which portray purchases as a pathway to social acceptance and increased self-esteem. Despite its considerable impact, oniomania tends to receive less attention compared to other addiction disorders.
Effective treatment involves addressing underlying issues such as trauma or neglect through sustained therapeutic interventions. However, full recovery is uncommon, highlighting the crucial need for ongoing support mechanisms.
