Some say that affluenza season is almost upon us. Others say affluenza is already an epidemic. All agree, however, that affluenza symptoms are undeniably most common from Thanksgiving to New Year's. Don't know if you have affluenza? Here are some diagnostic questions for you. Answer "true" to many of the following, and you should see the doctor:
• I'm willing to pay more for a t-shirt if it has a cool corporate logo on it.
• I have a shoe collection Imelda Marcos would envy.
• I'm willing to work 40 years at a job I hate so I can buy lots of stuff.
• When I'm feeling blue, I like to go shopping and treat myself.
• I want a sports utility vehicle, although I rarely drive in conditions that warrant one.
• I usually make just the minimum payment on my credit cards.
• I believe that whoever dies with the most toys wins.
• I'd rather be shopping right now.
You have probably guessed that affluenza is not a real disease; the term was coined in a PBS special about 10 years ago. The definition is: "The bloated, sluggish and unfulfilled feeling that results from efforts to keep up with the Joneses…"
Do you have affluenza?