i have always loved to shop but this last year i have been unable to stop. i find myself buying things that i do not need and that i would have never purchased a year ago. i don't know what to do and i am afraid that my friends and family will be angry with me if they knew. help me.

Well first of all, it sounds like you're admitting that you have a problem, which is a really good start. Now, could help for you to talk to your family psychologist about your problem.  Figure out what is making you such a compulsive shopper, what's changed in your life that you're using shopping to fix?  There's no magic pill to stop an addiction, it's something you have to manage everyday, but eventually you'll get better and better.  Here's some helpful tips to help you when you're struggling...

    * When you shop, use cash, not credit. Set an amount that’s within your budget and stick to it; that way you’re more accountable for what you’re forking over, and when it’s gone, it’s gone. Leave your ATM and credit cards, and checkbook, at home.

    * Be strict when you budget, allowing yourself a certain amount to spend frivolously each month – but don’t allow yourself to purchase anything that isn’t on the budget. Put it on paper so you have a hard copy to look at.

    * Be aware of where you’re spending! Keep a list of every single penny you spend for two weeks, so you can see exactly where your money is going.

    * Consult a credit or debt counseling service. These are great for helping to consolidate your credit debts and get you back on track.

    * Learn to differentiate between wants and needs. Purchase far more items from the “needs” category.

    * Don’t shop, swap! Chances are that you have things you don’t use or need any more, and your friends do, too. Organize a swap day and see what new treasures you can amass for free!

    * Use your designated monthly “mad money” to shop at flea markets and yard sales. That way you’ll get more items for a more budget-friendly price.

    * Shop with a friend or relative that will hold you accountable for your spending; make them aware of how much you have to spend, and tell them not to let you overspend – no matter how much you beg and plead.

    * Cut down on impulse buys by imposing a mandatory waiting period on yourself. Tell yourself that you can have it only if you wait a certain amount of time – say, a week or two. Stores will often put items on hold for you if you’re worried about it selling out. Waiting to buy it allows you to think and rethink the purchase, and determine whether or not it’s actually something you need.

Consider giving homemade gifts instead of always buying them. Cookies, homemade jams and jellies, or even homemade bath salts are always appreciated. If you feel like you’re not talented enough to make something from scratch, offer your time: a free night of babysitting, a day of gardening help. You can even draw up a cute little coupon and present it to the person. Don’t feel embarrassed, because your services could be invaluable!

toomuchshopping said: i have always loved to shop but this last year i have been unable to stop. i find myself buying things that i do not need and that i would have never purchased a year ago. i don't know what to do and i am afraid that my friends and family will be angry with me if they knew. help me.

I don't see how they could be angry with you :(. People have problems and need those special close people there for support. Try those things listed above for help. Good luck and with time maybe you can tell them..

I dont think they'll be as mad as you think, I'm sure they are going to be a bit angry at first but they'll get over it sooner than you think and they will probably insist on helping. You should let them. Recovering any addiction alone makes it 10 times harder. You should have one of them with you everytime you shop. They can make sure that you dont go and buy things that you dont need. Also not let you buy things that are ridiculously expensive. Accept their help and after a while you'll get used to it and you wont buy things you dont need either. I also suggest going to group meeting. Search for a shoppers annonymous group around your area. I'm sure there is one and you could join, that would help a lot too.