complusive shopping Archives

The article highlights a number of true stories where individuals have consumed large quantities of alcohol and have made the mistake of shopping while under the influence. Dr. Sack explains that, ?people who drink may be prone to other impulse-control problems because the part of the brain that?s involved?the reward center?is driven by both of those activities in slightly different ways. We see a fair number of people who, in addition to drinking excessively, go through spending sprees where they literally buy up the store and have tremendous remorse and regret because they may not even remember having done it.? Additionally, Dr. Sack notes that not everyone who has buyer?s remorse after an alcohol-fueled expenditure needs professional help, however, there are ways to protect yourself from this type of retail regret. Read the full article on Forbes.com.

Dr. Sack talked to WGN-TV in Chicago about dealing with addictions during the holidays. The segment covered four components:

• Knowing the line between over indulging and mental illness
• Warning signs that friend and relatives should watch out for
• What loved ones can do for an addict who refuses to get help
• How do you get someone to change their ways if there is a genetic issue?

Watch the interview below

Dr. Sack is currently featured in the September Issue of SHAPE in an article titled, ??Harmless? Addictions?? The piece discusses how activities such as shopping, tanning, and exercise have the potential to become just as addictive and destructive as drugs and alcohol. Dr. Sack is quoted in the opening paragraph discussing how ?for the brain, pleasure is pleasure? and how it can come from a substance or any enjoyable activity. Dr. Sack also talks about how genes, family upbringing, and underlying mental health issues all increase a person?s risk of getting hooked- as well as gender, stating ?while men are more susceptible to substance abuse, women are more apt to become addicted to a behavior.? (more?)