Shopping is one of the most popular American activities, but for some people it crosses the line into addiction. This can sound like a bit of a joke to some people, but the reality can actually become quite serious. Compulsive shoppers may quickly find themselves on the way toward financial ruin.

Addiction, in any form, is about being unable to control your impulses. Many people may feel an impulse to buy something expensive, but the addict is the one who is unable to resist that impulse even when they know it is a bad move. What makes the behavior compulsive is if it interferes with your ability to function in normal society. If you go shopping when you don't have money for food, skip work or class to go shopping, or otherwise allow the behavior to complicate your life, you have crossed the line into addiction.

Nobody is entirely sure what the cause of addiction is. The research suggests that it has to do with dopamine, a chemical in the brain that causes us to want things. Influences on addictive behavior are both genetic and environmental. Endorphins and dopamine are released when the addictive behavior is performed. To understand why behavior can be so addictive, it's important to realize that endorphins and dopamine are literally natural opiates in the brain.

What are the symptoms of a shopping addiction? The telltale sign of "shopoholism" is spending outside of your budget. Failing to realize when you can't afford something is the quintessential problem. Furthermore, it is a recurring problem. For those with an addiction, it happens at least three months out of the year.

If you have a secret credit card, hide the things you buy, and don't want your significant other to know what you are up to, there is a good chance you have a shopping addiction. When massive debt accumulates, the end result is often divorce.

If you realize that you are experiencing some of these symptoms, seek *counseling to deal with the root of the problem. There is evidence to suggest that *depression is closely linked with addictive behavior. You may also want to look for Debtors Anonymous, a 12-step program similar to Alcoholics Anonymous. Credit counseling is also highly recommended.

While there is no way to solve the problem over night, there are changes in behavior that can be very helpful. This includes never shopping alone, finding other hobbies, eliminating credit cards and checkbooks, and simply admitting that you have a problem.

If you'd like to know more about addiction, follow Solace Counseling on Facebook or Twitter, and visit our website.