COVID-19: The ABC’s of Compulsive Buying
Then Jesus declared, “I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never go hungry, and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty” John 6:35 (NIV).
It is so easy to feel anxious, worried, overwhelmed, or just out of control in our lives during COVID-19. Now more than ever, it’s easier to buy things online because of the pandemic. Compulsive buying is an uncontrollable desire to shop and is fueled by anxiety. During COVID-19, there has been compulsive buying of food and cleaning products. These are the real-world consequences of panic buying: 1) Price increase 2) Taking essential goods out of the hands of people who need them most. Anxiety needs to be acknowledged and managed. Evidence shows that panic buying is driven primarily by the fear of a shortage in the future.
There are ABC alternatives to compulsive buying:
· Always take inventory of your pantry.
· Be prepared all year round for possible emergencies or crises.
· Consider other people and their needs.
· Attempt a meal kit.
· Brace yourself for store pickup or delivery.
· Consider shopping during off-hours.
· Adjust to buying online.
· Begin to use your freezer more frequently.
· Coupons!