When was the last time you made a purchase just to lift your mood? I bet it actually worked—well, for a few moments, that is. You’re bored. You’re stressed out, so you scroll endlessly. What a rush. It feels great, until it doesn’t.
You may actually feel buyer’s remorse for blowing 150 bucks on those new kicks or guilty for spending two hours on YouTube. Sure, our brains look for some sort of “high,” but is your choice a healthy one? And you know, chocolate is great, but shoes are carb-free. Then again, bags are like chips. You can’t have just one.
But truly, your daily choices affect your emotional well-being, sweet friends. What do you do to raise your spirits? Do you shop, eat a pint of Häagen-Dazs, or scroll endlessly? Does it feel like a bit of relief? As they say: “Fitness? More like fit-this whole pint of vanilla into my mouth.” Every bite, purchase, or click triggers your famous feel-good chemical: dopamine.
When that momentary high fades, the guilt and remorse may come rushing in. Admit it. Do you still buy things you truly don’t need? Some habits seem to pull you in. Your mood and attitude will surely influence whether you have another drink or go on that shopping spree.
You may convince yourself that scrolling for hours is a harmless pick-me-up. But you can become trapped in a harmful cycle, sweet friends. Quick fixes invariably make things worse, ultimately. You wasted precious time. You’re overspending and drowning in regret.
Is there anything taking control of your life now? Admit it. You get a rush simply adding items to your cart. What do you treat yourself to after a stressful day? Are you aware of what you actually do when your brain craves that dopamine hit?
You may be unaware of how you began to link emotional relief with scrolling, posting, or shopping again and again. You sincerely need to address the underlying issue, such as stress, loneliness, or lack of purpose.
If your life feels out of control at times, these habits may offer a temporary feeling of agency or control. They help you avoid your feelings instead of pausing and processing them. This behavior actually weakens your emotional resilience and resolve.
Is drinking or scrolling on your phone a crutch or a choice? Be honest, sweet friends. What do you do when you feel alone, empty, or unseen? If your pattern is unhealthy, take a breath before you engage in it. Pause and actively choose a different way to cope.
“I don’t normally eat chocolate chip cookies, but when I do, I eat a dozen.” Uh-oh. Going to grab another glass of wine or your fifth chocolate chip cookie? Of course, we all know that broken cookies don’t have calories. On Instagram for three hours straight? Shopping again? Do I even lift? Yes, shopping bags! Shopping online gives me a reason to live for another three to five business days.
I swear I just went out to buy milk. But seriously, gently ask yourself: Why am I doing this? Creating a space between the impulse to do something and the action is where true change can occur.
Many of us chase those quick mood boosts throughout the day. But please do not allow yourself to be on autopilot. Work on self-awareness. Replace the dopamine rush with simply going outdoors for a bit, connecting with a friend, or doing something creative you enjoy.
Focus on stress relief and cultivating healthy habits throughout the day. Make sure your emotional needs are being met, and ensure that whatever you are doing adds to your life. The key is to swap from impulse to intention. Remember, you always have the power to choose what you wish to do and how to spend your precious time.
What offers you comfort and ease without leaving you feeling empty later? Yes, real peace does come from within, sweet friends. It’s been said: “First we make our habits, then our habits make us.”
Caroline is a licensed psychotherapist, crisis counselor, and writer with an office in Queens. She works with individuals, couples, and families. Appointments are available throughout the week and weekends. She can be reached at 917-717-1775 or at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or at facebook.com/pages/Safe-Haven-Healing.