Hard to say whether this is bipolar related or not. Very good to question the motives though. I think most people find material items comforting and a synthetic way to make them feel better. The problem is that the cost to obtain these items eventually leads to more issues that need soothing and then you buy more things to ease those pains and so on. If there is an item that you really want and can absolutely afford to get, without compromising anything, wait 30 or 60 days and if you still want it, get it. Put little checks and balances in place for yourself.