Coping With Compulsive Spending

There are two ways to attack the problem of compulsive spending, and both should be pursued at the same time. The first thing is to understand the nature of the problem: the emotional needs and personality traits which have given rise to this compulsion. Analyze such factors as self-image, desire for acceptance, methods of coping with problems, the friendships, hopes, fears, moods, and expectations of self and others.

Often the root cause is a problem with self-image. When persons see themselves as having little value, they may look to factors outside themselves as a source of value. Compulsive spending is not far different from kleptomania in that regard. The person is looking to things to fill the vacuum in the heart which should be filled with a sense of confidence in whom God created he or she to be.

But our worth as individuals depends on who we are, not what we have. And God is the one who decides who we are. He has said, by the act of creation, that we have a right to be, and that we are persons of worth and value. He has created us for a joyful purpose and given each of us good gifts to share. Internalizing God's love and acceptance sets us free from the need to acquire things in order to make ourselves feel accepted.

Next, it will be important to get some help. There are agencies in nearly every city which assist persons with problems of compulsive behavior. A credit counseling agency can be found by calling the local United Way agency, or by writing to:

National Foundation for Consumer Credit, Inc.
8701 Georgia Avenue
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Telephone: (301) 5895600

In addition to this specific kind of help, a Christian psychologist or pastor trained in counseling would be a good resource of guidance. This kind of help is important not only in the process of getting spending in line, but afterwards to enable growth and to establish new biblical directions in life.

Also, the compulsive spender needs to become involved in new activities which can bring fulfillment and satisfaction. As one understands the needs which were met by the compulsive spending, more positive and healthful ways to get those needs met can be found.

Most of all, the compulsive spender needs to seek a genuine relationship with God, to find in him the kind of acceptance and fullness of experience which will bring peace of mind and a sense of worth.