When I'm manic I absolutely love to shop. I get giddy about it. I buy clothes, lotions, technology, and anything that I deem to be "cute" or useful around the house. But in real life I hate shopping. Everything about it makes me want to climb under the covers. So it's a really easy litmus test as to if I'm manic or not...you'll find me in Anchor Blue trying on t-shirts and jeans if I'm manic. Since I only get these spells once every year or two, I probably actually do need the clothes. I still wear things with holes in them around the house. I stitch them with a needle and thread, but it's an ugly job. I can't bear to throw away my old standbys and I usually hate to shop, so what can I do?

Not sure how to advise you about your coworkers taking your credit cards. I would just take a certain amount of cash with you to go shopping with and once it's gone, go home. That way you know in advance that you can afford it, but won't spend more than you have. If you don't have any cash in the bank, only credit, I wouldn't go out at all. The urge is strong, but you'll be glad you didn't overextend yourself once it has passed.