We all seem to feel better when we buy something but you should stop & ask yourself 'do I really need this' the answer will probably be no. I sometimes pick something up thats been reduced to £4 for example & remember that i should just keep the money as I don't need it so I put it back! Try not to shop if you can help it. I visualise my Mum sitting on my shoulder telling me I don't need it.xxx

Cut up your store cards and credit cards, please don't be tempted to apply for new ones. Go to your Citizen's Advice Bureau and ask for debt management help. They could contact those you owe money to and negotiate a final figure to clear your debt. If you cannot get to Citizens Advice, write to the companies yourself and explain the situation, ask if they would accept a one off payment to clear the debt, make the payment and keep out of trouble in future by paying cash/saving up.

Firstly, I would confide in your husband, tell him your problem, because if/when he finds out, that will just be another problem. At least then your husband can also help you through this. Second thing I would do is get rid of all credit cards and store cards, this is where your husband can come in useful by doing it for you or he keeps control of them for you. Thirdly, if you do need to go out shopping, take cash only, at least then, once its ran out, you cant buy anything else, and you wont have any store/credit cards or bank cards with you to draw any more money out. Fourly, maybe see your doctor, maybe there is a reason why you shop so much, usually its comfort shopping to cope with another problem, My friend who was a shoppaholic, did it to cope with losing her mum.