I've just read an article on MSN about the latest modern day afflictions affecting our society. According to this piece, we are a sick bunch of bunnies. From tanorexia (I've got symptoms) to drunkorexia (an occasional malady), it seems that I could be quite poorly. And then I read about cyberchondriacs and technoholics. Can't stop looking at your Crackberry ? Me either. You could be a technoholic. Somebody get me an online doctor...
It transpires that up to a third of us could be technoholics. Mild symptoms are being able to text at the speed of light (most teenagers appear to have got this disease) to the more serious Crackberry addicts (ok I admit it... my name is Steve Blakeman and I am a technoholic).
A study at Northampton University found that 33% of us feel deprived if separated from our internet access or several digital devices. What's more, excessive use of the same communication devices can lead to social withdrawal, relationship issues and even physical illness.
And if you do become sick, then you might want to search your symptoms online to seek a remedy. But you shouldn't. Why ? Because then you might become a cyberchondriac. This is a new term, invented by GP's, for individuals who look up their symptoms online, then self diagnose themselves and turn up at the doctors convinced (and armed with printed evidence) that they really are seriously ill.
And that means I'm royally screwed. I looked this up article online, discovered that I am a technoholic, then tried to find a cure online and then by default I am now doubly afflicated because I've now obviously become a cyberchondriac. Hey doc, I told you I didn't feel well...
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Steve Blakeman
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Member since: 03 Jun 2008
Last login: 27 Oct 2008
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