I spent my family into bankruptcy...not once, but TWICE. I collected antique carnival glass, decorative plates, purses, clothes, you name it, I bought it. I ruined my credit and let my student loans go into default. Still I spent money like it was going out of style---I'd drop a couple hundred in Bath and Body Works, a thousand in Walmart, several thousand in furniture stores. I even bought a new car on an impulse.

Now I worry about hanging on to what little money I do have and counting every penny. I'm medicated quite well and I think that's helped a lot. I've also agreed with my husband that he can take my bank card away if/when I get manic.