My Daily Dose of Life

Computer and internet are part of my everyday life, it's my field, it's my job, and I can't imagine a single day without touching a computer. For me, without the computer, my productivity will be halted, I'll be useless without my Linux machine. Sometimes, on holidays when I'm supposed to rest, strange things play inside my mind, I see Google colors, the sound of the keyboard keep hunting my ears, and sometimes my fingers would just move as if touching the mouse or keys. Damn, I may not know it, but I'm already addicted to the computer.

According to Dr. Maressa Hecht Orzack, Ph.D., our society is becoming more and more computer dependent not only for information, but for fun and entertainment. This trend is a potential problem affecting all ages, starting with computer games for kids to chats for the unwary or vulnerable adult. Below are some symptoms of Computer Addiction.

Psychological Symptoms

• Having a sense of well-being or euphoria while at the computer
• Inability to stop the activity
• Craving more and more time at the computer
• Neglect of family and friends
• Feeling empty, depressed, irritable when not at the computer
• Lying to employers and family about activities
• Problems with school or job

Physical Symptoms

• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Dry eyes
• Migraine headaches
• Back aches
• Eating irregularities, such as skipping meals
• Failure to attend to personal hygiene
• Sleep disturbances, change in sleep pattern