Shopping Anxiety?

Question

I'm 16 and think I have some sort of shopping anxiety (is there such a thing). Most girls my age love the mall. They love the atmosphere and everything else. I do love fashion...I love new clothes. But, for the past few years I've been living off of my cousins old clothes. Which is okay, but they aren't the latest and greatest current fashion items. Before I go to the mall I like to plan out what I need, and what I want to get. I write down a certain item and list the store where I will get it from, even the colour I like. I'm excited and like to put together oufits on the internet that would suit me. But, as soon as I get there, my mood just goes way down. I couldn't care less about the planning I've done ahead of time. I just want to get out and go home asap. Then, as soon as I get home, I regret the fact that I didn't get anything. I hate everything about the mall. The prissy people who look you up and down, the crowds, the slow walkers...everything. What can I do about this?

Is there any way to get more motivated once I'm at the mall? Christmas is coming up soon aswell, and I need to get all of my friends presents. That's just not looking fun...

I also hate online shopping. The size charts they have don't seem to be the right sizes and I end up having to take many items back. Also, the shipping charges kind of suck...

Answer 1

Some people feel like this. How about going when the crowds are down or go to stores that have less people. I prefer this myself.

Answer 2

The thing about anxiety that makes it so difficult to reason through is that it is not rational. We cannot always find a good solution, but you are really doing well by trying to overcome it and by asking for help. It sounds to me as if "expectation" is an issue with your mall experiences. Wanting for a good outcome sometimes makes having a good time nearly impossible. Perhaps, once the holiday shopping season is over, you should try going to the mall without a list and without plans. Try simply looking at things that catch your eye without an intention to buy. Look everyone else up and down and picture them wearing your cousin's hand-me-downs. Perhaps start by shopping for a purse -- something that has no fit and can be to your own tastes. In the meantime, shop online for gifts at an online bookstore; pick out a book for each person on your list. Shipping on books is reasonable, too. If the problem gets worse, mention it to your family physician. Anxiety disorders are treatable with medications.