A rainy Bank Holiday is just begging to be spent in the shops but for some people shopping is a full blown addiction, needing 12 step treatment just the same as alcoholism or drug dependency. It might seem amusing but a liking for new shoes can take over one's life and mess up relationships, finances (natch) and careers. I must admit that although I don't know any certified shopaholics I would possibly take on a brusque, 'pull yourself together' attitude that I would never dream of inflicting on the one recovering alcoholic that I know. Shopping addiction has the shame jokey cachet as sex addiction (snigger) but it must be tragic when a need for cheap shoes takes over your life.
Q: Do you feel uncomfortable shopping with other people as you can't buy what you want?
A: Sometimes, it depends whether I'm on a browsing stroll, or a mission.
Q: Is buying things a reward for putting up with stress?
A: Not really, no. I shop to update my wardrobe and because I need new things rather than treating the trip as a reward. Chocolate is a treat, not Chanel. (Chanel, of course, being a necessity)
Q: Do you love looking for bargains (and do you often end up with more than you need?)
A: Bargains rock and if this means buying three of the same item, then yes absolutely - but they'll all be worn eventually (except for those ill-fated glittery New Look shoes that only cost £20 but I've never been able to leave the house in. Sigh).
