what's the logic behind people's spending behavior when depressed?

I would have to say its a comfort thing...instant satisfaction/happiness even if it only lasts for a few moments...Its just like ppl who eat when they are depressed, its a comfort thing it makes them feel better at that moment

My friend and I were discussing why shopping IS therapy for women. You know how most therapists would say if you have low self esteem, you need to work on the inside first in order to see the outside as beautiful? Hogwash. If the outside looks nice, you automatically feel better, so we shop! If you buy a new outfit, get your hair done, get new makeup, and dress up, you start to feel like a new person and when you are depressed, you'd love to feel like anyone but yourself!

I think it is good to treat yourself once in awhile. Perhaps that it why I am so depressed because I can't afford to treat myself - that and I'm always treating everyone else. I think just going for a good brisk walk is helpful in and of itself, especially outside on a sunny day. It can really lift your spirits and releases those brain chemicals you need to keep you happy. (Sorry, I'm out of it right now and can't even thing of those stupid brain chemicals - I have depression due to fibromyalgia so am always reading and talking about those things but right now, for the life of me, can't remember it. I'm sure someone will come along and remind me what those chemicals are.)

I have been known to do this as well. I'm not really sure why we do it. I'm sure part of it is to make ourselves feel better. To try and find something to take us out of the funk we are in. To change things by new items or by buying things to change our house. Some way to make our lives seem less depressing then it is even if only for a few minutes.

I am not psychologist but this is what sounds logical to me. This is what I think: Actually when your down, you need some positive energy, you want happiness for that moment so you spend or eat or do things which will make you feel better for that very moment.