Tao of Lunacy

Technological OCD (Obsessive Compulsive Disorder): Character trait manifesting itself in the obsessive need to have computer/internet access at all times. Affected individuals feel isolated and despondent when such access is denied and feel compelled to return to the computer or internet as soon as possible. Some individuals manifest in their compulsion by having a text messaging capable device handy at all times.

OK so I just made that up…but how many other people feel cut off from the world like I do when they aren’t near a computer, or don’t have access to the internet, or God forbid - forget (or lose) their cell phone?? I’m OK when I have the choice to be "connected" or not, but when it’s taken away from me…..I’m positively devastated.

When I lost my cell phone while on vacation one time, I found out just how dependent I really am.  I had not taken my laptop with me , so when I was at the airport - I was totally cut off from the online/internet/mobile world.  As I was sitting there waiting for my flight, I started looking around at all the people. People on their laptops.  People on their Blackberry’s. People on their cell phones.  All of a sudden I started having a panic attack because I was completely and totally cut off.  It was then I realized my dependency on technology.

I have to wonder is it a personality trait? Something in my genetic makeup? What is it that compels me to be either messing with a program, app, blog, gaming or just online and "connected"? Is there really such a thing as Technological OCD? It’s not internet addiction exactly - but being addicted to being connected in general. Really, how many headsets, flash drives,and programs to be used on rare occasions does one person need? And do you really check all those email accounts you signed up for just because they were free? How many social networks do you belong to…more importantly how often do you feel you need to go online and check them?  I’m sure a good psychiatrist could help me sort it all out but it seemed a lot easier to self medicate and have mobile internet access.

So I have invested in  "geek toys" as the IT guy at work calls it. I have an iPad and an iPhone (but I guess any smartphone would really suffice)  These little babies lets me be connected to my entire world even if I’m away from the computer.  In fact, the iPad has replaced a lot of what I used to do on the computer.  There are two people in my household and between us we have 6 different phones, computers, and iPads with 3G that can keep us attached to the rest of the world.

Sure, such geekiness comes with price tag….and yes I know money can’t buy happiness….but it can buy mobile internet access to quell the anxiety of being "disconnected". And in the event there’s ever a natural disaster, I have an  auto adapter in case of long term power outages…so I never have to be cut off from the wonders of the computing world again. Now I can sleep easy at night.