We’ve all been there - telling ourselves that ‘life is short’ as we click add to cart. Whether it’s an expensive dinner, a holiday you can’t quite afford, or another ‘little treat’, doom spending has become the defining financial habit of our generation.

In this episode, we unpack why we spend when the world feels uncertain - the psychology, the emotion, and the cultural forces behind it. From dopamine and control to social media, fatalism, and escapism, we’ll explore how uncertainty reshapes our relationship with money and why buying things can feel like the only way to feel better.

We explore:

•        Why spending can feel emotionally soothing and self-regulating
•        How financial stress, uncertainty, and global instability fuel impulsive habits
•        The rise of ‘little treat culture’ and the illusion of control
•        The role of social media in pairing crisis with consumption
•        Signs that your coping mechanism has turned into doom spending
•        How to break the cycle - from doom saving to mindful spending

If you’ve ever felt the urge to spend when everything feels out of control, this episode is for you.

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The Psychology of your 20s is not a substitute for professional mental health help. If you are struggling, distressed or require personalised advice, please reach out to your doctor or a licensed psychologist.