At this time of year there are no illness more virulent than "affluenza." As soon as an individual believes that he has developed immunity, a new commercial strain evolves. It is very contagious, readily contracted from TVs, catalogues, at shopping malls and even discount centers.

Fortunately, affluenza is readily diagnosable. It is characterized by 1. Feelings of anxiety that one is missing out on some material item that could bring true happiness and fulfillment. 2. A sense of hopelessness about ever being satisfied or being able to satisfy others with presents. 3. Amnesia concerning last year's similar quest, the frustrations and the financial hangover it left. 4. A feeling of helplessness that anything can ever be done to stop this out-of-control rat race.

No vaccination has yet been developed for this malady, but to lessen its impact, ask yourself the following questions before making any purchases.

1. Is this purchase necessary? Could I borrow or rent one instead?

2. Is it really worth the cost? How many hours of work had to be done to pay for this?

3. Is this gift potentially harmful for the person for whom it is intended?

4. How many do I (or the person for which I am buying it) already have?

5. How much will it really be used?

6. Am I buying this out of obligation?

7. Am I buying this as a joke? Is the joke worth the cost?

8. Would I want something like this? Am I buying this item because I would like it, but the recipient most likely wouldn't care for it (like a husband who buys tools or a rifle for his wife)?

9. Am I purchasing something under pretense: I say it is for the kids, but it is really for me (perhaps something that you wanted as a child but didn't get)?

10. Am I being manipulated to make this purchase by slick marketing, a pushy or flattering salesperson or a greedy individual who requested or demanded this?

11. Am I able to clean, lubricate and/or maintain it myself? Am I willing to? Will I be able to repair it?

12. Have I researched it to get the best quality for the best price?

13. How will I dispose of it when I'm done using it? Are the resources that went into it renewable or nonrenewable? Is it made or recycled materials, and is it recyclable?

14. Is this purchase being strongly influenced by the kid inside me? If so, what could I do to satisfy that part of me without cost?

15. What will likely happen to this item when interest in it is lost?

16. Is there anything that I own that could be substituted for it?

17. Do I (or the person I am buying this for) really need it?

18. Do I have to have it now? If so, could I get it cheaper later?

It is important to be balanced in the treatment of this emotional disease. No one would suggest that people go to the other extreme and become fanatical and miserly during this season and lose the joy and fun of giving. Wisdom is being able to enjoy the simple life and not be dependent upon externals for happiness. Make this holiday season healthier by focusing on being with people instead of getting "stuff".