temporary escape from daily pressures. In the hustle and bustle of life, buying provides a momentary break, a diversion from personal and global concerns. Psychologists have long pointed out that shopping can result in a surge of endorphins, those feel-good hormones that momentarily lift our spirits.

Secondly, it's about control. When individuals may feel powerless — perhaps due to challenges at work, home, or within their financial means — making a purchase is an action over which they have full agency. This perceived control can be powerful and intoxicating, offering a sense of autonomy in an uncontrollable world.

Moreover, retail therapy taps into the excitement of anticipation and novelty. Owning something new, whether it's the latest gadget, a fashion item, or even something as simple as a novel office accessory, brings a fresh experience into our lives. It momentarily injects excitement and breaks the monotony of everyday routines.

However, there's a poignant contrast in these numbers. While retail therapy remains a source of joy for many, a significant minority faces economic hardship that prevents them from engaging in even the most modest purchasing activities. The same…