Many say shopping is just a bad habit, and that money cannot buy happiness. However, for us, retail therapy means more than just window shopping or adding things to a cart. It is real. It is one of the few things that helps when we feel overwhelmed, anxious or sad. We are not blind to our “addictions,” but they are not something we want to change. In fact, shopping has helped us get through some of our rougher moments.
When stressed about grades, assignments or drama, shopping offers a break from it all. It is a moment where we can escape into the fun and exciting world of going-out tops and low-waisted jeans. That feeling of picking out the perfect item is irreplaceable. Shopping makes us want to do more and try more. So, even though it is considered a bad habit, it is good in our eyes.
After all, what motivation to work hard is stronger than the promise of a shopping spree? As high school students — specifically, high school students taking multiple Advanced Placement classes and other advanced courses — it can be difficult to push ourselves to work on top of all our studies. However, sometimes the simple promise of a package on the way is enough to make us break the cycle of doom scrolling or stressing about school, and focus on being productive. We can then not only feel proud of ourselves for working and making money, but we can reward ourselves with a small purchase, continuing the cycle.
In our opinion, the mental health benefits of retail therapy can extend far beyond just pushing us to get out of the house and shop or to get a job to fund our activity. Especially during AP testing season, school and life in general often feel grueling, repetitive and exhausting, with little to look forward to beyond the countless hours of testing that lie ahead. The small act of ordering a cute hair clip or necklace and the excitement of waiting for it to come in the mail can add that tiny touch of joy and anticipation that students often feel starved for during the busy moments of the school year.
People are quick to judge retail therapy as fake or irresponsible, but everyone has their own way of dealing with issues. Some exercise, others listen to music and some create art. We shop. It is our way of expressing ourselves, gaining confidence and giving our minds a break. We are not saying shopping should replace therapy or mental health care. For us, it has a positive effect, even if it is temporary.
