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India Today
01-08-2025
- Lifestyle
- India Today
What online shopping says about your mind
It's been over ten years since online shopping became a big part of our lives. For some people, it's a game-changer; they buy everything online, from groceries to gifts. For others, it's just a once-in-a-while thing, and they still enjoy going to shops and browsing in there's something satisfying about shopping online. Feeling a little low? Just scroll through the endless list of things you didn't know you many, online shopping has become second nature. They're quick to hit 'add to cart' online, but when it comes to spending in a physical store, they suddenly think twice. Could this habit be saying something about their behaviour or even their mental health?When online shopping becomes the first choice "Buying something gives us a sense of significance, a dopamine boost. But when getting that boost requires effort, like going out, finding a store, talking to a salesperson, and dealing with traffic or parking, the mind weighs the reward against the effort and often finds it not worth it," Dr Sarthak Dave, an Ahmedabad-based psychiatrist, tells India adds that online shopping, however, offers the same dopamine kick with minimal effort; no leaving the house, no social interaction, no hassles. So, naturally, when the reward is the same, but the effort is less, our mind prefers the easier Dr Rahul Chandhok, senior consultant and head, psychiatry, Artemis Lite, New Delhi, explains that shopping online gives you more privacy, control, and convenience than shopping in stores."People can shop without feeling rushed, having to talk to other people, or having to be on a schedule. They feel like they have more control over their choices and less like they are being judged. For a lot of people, it takes away the stress of having to make choices in public. It also gets rid of physical barriers like crowds and travel. Shopping online feels safer, easier, and less emotionally draining than shopping in person," he behind the habit?While for the vast majority, this behaviour reflects a basic human tendency toward laziness, as our minds are wired to seek maximum reward with minimal effort. But in some cases, according to Dr Dave, it may also point to underlying psychological instance, social anxiety can lead people to avoid public places and interactions. Compulsive buying disorder involves an uncontrollable urge to shop, often as a way to cope with stress. Similarly, it could also be a symptom of clinical depression in which online shopping may offer a brief moment of relief or Chandhok agrees that people who act this way often have deeper psychological needs, such as wanting to feel in control, avoiding social pressure, or wanting to make fewer decisions. If being out in public makes you anxious, online shopping can feel like a safe space | Photo: Pexels/ "Some people may also feel a little anxious in public, which can make it hard to shop in person. It's good for their mental health to be able to make decisions about what to buy online. It shows that someone is using a way to deal with stress, too much stimulation, not that they don't want to spend money," he as per Dr Rajiv Mehta, vice chairperson, psychiatry, Sir Gangaram Hospital, New Delhi, people who prefer online shopping tend to prioritise convenience, time and monetary efficiency."A few are introverted and prefer solitary activity. It also means people are becoming more tech-savvy and price-conscious. A few are detail-oriented and enjoy researching," shares the therapy with a side of denialadvertisementWhen we shop online, spending money can feel a little... unreal. A few taps, and it's done, no cash exchanged, no awkward swipe at the checkout. So, could it be that some people prefer shopping online because it helps hide the guilt of spending? After all, when you're at a store, physically handing over cash or your card feels more real, and that reality can come with a side of guilt."Definitely, online shopping is an anonymous experience with a lack of immediate feedback and social interactions. However, many times it seems that people go on a buying spree, which is not their original intention. Such big expenses can rather induce guilt. This is especially common with credit card holders," shares Dr Chandhok also states that when you shop online, it can feel less real. There is no immediate exchange of money or physical contact, which may lessen the emotional impact of a purchase."For some, this helps them avoid feeling guilty about spending money in public. It feels more private and separate, which helps them mentally. This disconnect between what you do and what happens may make you feel better for a while, but it can cause hidden financial stress over time," he fear of being judgedWhen it comes to online shopping, there is a sense of comfort. Control, privacy, and personalisation can make you feel safe, and you can scroll without feeling rushed, compare prices, and pick exactly what you Chandhok states that online shopping may help some feel less self-conscious, especially if they've been judged in stores based on their looks, choices, or adds, "Not having to deal with social pressure can be nice. But this behaviour isn't always based on the fear of being judged." Shopping online feels safe because there's no one watching or judgeing | Photo: Pexels/Cottonbro Studio Meanwhile, Dr Dave feels that the fear of judgment comes if the person feels guilty of doing it. And if shopping is their guilty pleasure, online shopping apps are their go-to place because it's very personal, and no one can find out what and how much they are shopping for and hence no deeperChoosing online shopping instead of going to stores could point to something deeper, though that's not always the case."People who don't go to stores because they're very anxious or have low self-esteem, or who shop online to avoid their feelings, may have social anxiety, depression, or compulsive spending," explains Dr when spending becomes a way to numb emotions or escape real-life problems, it's worth pausing to explore the feelings behind it. Understanding the 'why' can make a big difference to both your mental and financial as per Dr Dave, life moves pretty fast these days. Taking half a day, or even a full one, to head out, deal with traffic, and shop around physically can feel exhausting. So when there's a more convenient option that lets you do the same thing with just a few clicks, it's only natural that people go for excessive online shopping might sometimes point to things like social anxiety or compulsive shopping habits. Or it could simply be a lifestyle choice. But one thing is clear: as these conveniences grow, our physical activity and real-world social interactions are that slow decline is quietly opening the door to both physical and mental health issues—because movement, face-to-face connections, and everyday activity are basic human needs we can't afford to checkoutAt the end of the day, online shopping isn't the enemy, it's a reflection of how our lives, habits, and priorities are changing. For some, it's a helpful tool; for others, it may be a sign to slow down and check in with it's about saving time, feeling better, or something deeper, what really matters is finding balance. As life gets more digital, we shouldn't forget the value of real-world connections, staying active, and being present. After all, not everything we truly need can be bought online.- EndsMust Watch
India Today
25-07-2025
- Health
- India Today
Overlooked signs of anxiety in daily life
We have to give it to Gen Z, they've made it normal to talk openly about mental health and how we're really feeling. If nothing else, this generation has helped us reconnect with our emotions and shown us that there's no shame in speaking up when something doesn't feel that awareness is more important than ever in today's hyper-competitive world, where the pressure to stay ahead can quietly fuel anxiety. The tricky part about anxiety is that it often creeps in unnoticed. We tend to miss the subtle signs, but recognising them early can make all the difference in preventing bigger issues down the what actually happens when anxiety hits?advertisement"When anxiety hits, the body quickly prepares to handle a perceived threat, even if there isn't any real danger around. It typically begins with a trigger stimulus, such as a distressing thought or mental image. This leads to a perceived threat, which causes the brain to interpret the situation as dangerous," Dr Shailesh Jha, consultant psychiatrist, Indraprastha Apollo Saarthak Mental Health Services, New Delhi, tells India Today," adding, "In response, stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol are released, prompting apprehension (such as fear or anxiety) and triggering physiological sensations like a racing heart, sweating, or dizziness." The doctor further explains that these physical changes can feel intense or frightening, and one may start interpreting them catastrophically. This catastrophic thinking creates more fear, feeding back into the cycle and worsening the becomes a loop where fear fuels physical symptoms, and those symptoms reinforce fear. This feedback loop is a hallmark of anxiety attacks and panic a result, one may feel overwhelmed, out of control, or unable to focus on anything beyond their immediate Sumalatha Vasudeva, psychologist, Gleneagles BGS Hospital, Bengaluru, goes on to explain that when a person feels anxious, there are two responses — physiological and psychological. Physiologically, they may experience palpitations, rapid breathing, muscle tension, or even dizziness. And psychologically, it often feels like overwhelming worry, fear, or a sense of losing can happen to anyoneYes, you read that right. "People of all ages, backgrounds, and lifestyles can get anxious, no matter how strong, successful, or happy they seem," says Dr Rahul Chandhok, senior consultant and head, psychiatry, Artemis Lite, New you're stressed or unsure, it's normal for this to happen, and sometimes it happens even when there's no clear reason. You can feel anxious because of changes in life, stress at work, problems with family, or health concerns. Anxiety affects lots of people | Photo: Pexels/Suzy Hazelwood "People who look calm on the outside may be having a hard time on the inside. Knowing that anxiety is a normal part of being human and not a sign of weakness can help people feel less conscious and more willing to help. No one is immune, but with help, it can be managed effectively," adds the Dr Jha mentions that about 19 per cent of adults experience an anxiety disorder every year, and 31 per cent will have one at some point in their the symptomsadvertisementIndicators of anxiety can affect the body and mind. Physically, you might have a pounding heart, sweaty palms, shaky hands, headaches, dizziness, stomach aches, or difficulty may feel restless or have trouble sitting anxiety often shows up as constant worry, racing thoughts, trouble concentrating, and problems with you might feel irritable, tense, or on anxiety makes you avoid certain situations or tasks because you're afraid it will make things worse. When anxiety gets stronger or leads to a panic attack, you could feel chest pain, numbness, tingling, or feel like you're losing anxiety clues we tend to overlookThe experts feel that there are many everyday behaviours that are signs of anxiety, but are easy to to Dr Vasudeva, subtle signs that go unnoticed may be avoiding social situations or procrastinating on tasks due to fear of failure. Constantly seeking reassurance from others can also be a who are anxious may also complain of chronic fatigue or headaches without a medical Dr Jha shares that actions like constantly checking your phone, fidgeting, or having trouble making decisions can point to mistakes, forgetting things, or snapping at others when under stress are also common signs. Constant overthinking can signal anxiety | Photo: Pexels/Andrea Piacquadio Not just this, but difficulties with sleep, upset stomach, needing frequent breaks, or always worrying about the 'what ifs' can all be subtle clues. "Because these behaviours often seem normal or can be explained away, people may not realise they're connected to anxiety," adds Dr Jha."Feeling like you need to control everything is also a sign of anxiety," states Dr Chandhok, adding, "Anxiety can also show up as stomachaches, nail-biting, trouble sitting still, or restlessness."advertisementHe explains that people often think of these signs as personality traits or habits, but they could be signs of deeper emotional problems. Noticing these signs can be a gentle reminder that someone may need help or a moment to focus on their to do if you feel anxious?If you or someone nearby is experiencing an anxiety attack, the key is to stay calm and remember that the feelings are temporary and not harmful. Dr Jha suggests focusing on taking slow, deep breaths in through your nose, out through your mouth. Doing so can help to name and accept what's happening instead of fighting Dr Chandhok, the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique is a good way to deal with anxiety. "You gently focus on your senses by noticing five things you can see, four things you can touch, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste. It makes you focus on the present."The doctor adds that box breathing is another useful technique. Inhale for four seconds, hold for four seconds, exhale for four seconds, and hold again for four seconds. This slows down your heart rate and calms your Dr Jha also says that it's impossible to avoid anxiety altogether, but there are healthy ways to reduce exercise is one of the best ways to lower anxiety over sleep and a healthy diet can also make a big caffeine and alcohol, making time for friends and things you enjoy, and practising relaxation methods like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga can also useful to keep a journal or talk to someone you trust about your what triggers your anxiety and try to manage or avoid those triggers when possible.- EndsMust Watch
