Impulsive spending / recovering addict

[brooke_25]

Hi,

I am a recovering addict, that has been diagnosed with BPD, GAD, PTSD and Depression. I wasnt an every day user but I couldnt drink/go out without it, and I would crave it on weekends, a bit of fun turned into a coping mechanism. My addiction started to cause relationship problems so I am working my butt off to stay away from triggers. I am on day 17. But now I have realized since the substances are eliminated, I am now impulsively shopping, yesterday I spent over $400 on shoes and gifts to get that rush. (being stuck at home isnt helping, it seems shopping is all i can do)

I feel like i am bouncing from one addiction to another!

Any suggestions to curb cravings to get a superficial high?

[Emmen]

Hello brooke_25,

Welcome to the forums.

Firstly, let me congratulate you on starting on this journey of recovery. It's a difficult task that you have taken on, and you have so much courage to do this. Day 17 is already an achievement, good work!

The coronavirus situation has made your task more complex because you're unable to distract yourself with other activities. Being in lockdown has resulted in people struggling with loneliness and isolation, and you aren't alone in resorting to impulsive shopping to get a rush. Don't be too hard on yourself.

I wonder if you've considered other forms of distraction. If you have weights at home, how about starting an exercise routine? Or if you're into art, how about pursuing that? I know these don't give the same rush, but the distraction could help you resist other temptations.

You can also explore Alcoholic Anonymous' online meetings (https://aa.org.au/) as a way to meet people who share similar experiences as you, who can also support you on your journey. Since you have also been diagnosed with BPD, GAD, PTSD and Depression, please also have a look at other support groups that can help you through this time. The Black Dog Institute has compiled a list: https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/resources-support/support-groups/

I hope this is helpful. All the best on your journey.

Take care,
M

[M99]

Hi brooke_25,

Good on you for trying to recover from your past situations. That is always a step forward, now it seems your second question is how and if so, how can it be maintained?

I think its important you try to replace negative behaviours with positive behaviours. For example instead of impulsively spend money to get that mental high, maybe try other more healthy behaviours such as exercising. What are your hobbies that are good practises? Maybe incorporating that and replacing the negative behaviour will help you maintain more control and more stability.

Take care,

M99.