It’s open 24/7, promises easy delivery and collection, and is happy to keep your secrets – small wonder more people are becoming addicted to online shopping

The shopaholic loaded to their brows with carrier bags, Ab-Fab style, after a frenzied shopping trip may seem almost comical. But for an increasing number of people, retail therapy turns into something far from therapeutic or pleasurable – and not at all funny. We’re talking about shopping addiction.

Buying-shopping disorder, or BSD, has been recognised as a condition for decades and was first cited as a psychiatric affliction around 100 years ago. The internet, however, has taken it to a whole new level. It’s estimated half of UK consumers now shop online, with the spend set to grow by 30 per cent by 2024. Online stores, apps and nominated delivery times and locations have made internet purchasing super easy, with goods available at the click of a button 24/7.

In terms of BSD, it’s been a game-changer. Around six per cent of the UK population has a shopping addiction, according to research – and it’s almost remarkable that the percentage isn’t higher, given the clever cues to buy, discount codes galore, subliminal adverts and reminders of goods left in your shopping basket. Why not checkout now?