Recent studies have revealed that Americans are spending approximately 45 billion dollars a year shopping under the influence of alcohol. While this might be great news for online retailers, the data only adds to the many personal and financial risks faced by regular drinkers. Thanks to the accessibility and convenience of online shopping, consumers can shop for practically anything from the comfort of their home, and even while drinking. Alcohol lowers inhibitions significantly, making it easy to succumb to impulse buys and irrational spending. Drinking in excess can lead to financial issues due to the cost of alcohol and the potential for decreased job performance, and the added financial risk of drunk shopping is yet another reason to avoid alcohol altogether. One study conducted on regular drinkers not only concluded that roughly 80% of them had shopped online under the influence of alcohol, but also determined that drunk shoppers are more likely to drink in excess. While shopping and alcohol use are not always linked, it seems there is a correlation between alcohol abuse and impulsive online spending. Shopping alone can increase endorphin production and create a temporary rush, which is why shopping can become a serious addiction for some people. For heavy drinkers who already receive an endorphin rush from alcohol, seeking out other forms of reward while drunk can become a means to maintain the high. While drunk shopping can be a serious problem due to the financial impact and the problems that may arise in your relationships as a result of irresponsible spending, frequent shopping under the influence may point to a larger issue. As anyone who has sent an embarrassing text or said something they didn’t mean while drunk knows, alcohol can cause us to make decisions based on impulse and emotion rather than logic. If you find yourself spending excess money while drinking and feeling guilt and regret the next day, it may be time for you to take a closer look at your relationship with alcohol.
At Arbor Behavioral Healthcare, you will meet knowledgeable, compassionate professionals that understand addiction in all its forms. The Arbor uses an integrative and holistic approach to treat addiction and mental health issues. No treatment is one-size-fits-all, and at The Arbor you will have a team of experts prepared to create your customized treatment plan. We offer care for your mind, body, and spirit, so that you can heal from the inside out and look forward to a lifetime of sobriety and wellness. If you are ready to take the first step in your recovery, please call us at 844-413-2690.