After returning from some time off, it never ceases to amaze me how easily we can shove our brains into overdrive and expect them to keep up for any period of time. Taking a step back, my idea of ‘relaxing’ is usually forcing myself to turn off my phone. Hopefully the angst of not knowing what’s happening in the world will subside in a few days and I can properly enjoy the remainder of the week before having to ramp up once again. I want to believe I’m getting better as I age, but sadly that is likely not the case.

The fact is we live in a fast-paced, information age. If we obsessively try to stay on top of all that’s happening in the universe, our attention span inevitably suffers from the sheer volume of information available. Conversely, if we make a point to avoid the network and are ill-informed, we’re living like dinosaurs.

I remember when our family’s first computer was a Vic20 by Commodore. I also remember upgrading to a Commodore 64 and splurging on a Datassette peripheral that ‘played’ data off of cassettes. Games had 8-bit graphics, simple animation, and cheesy synthesized music that we fell in love with during the 80’s. I remember stressing about completing projects in school; the library closing at 9pm and an absent-minded 10-year-old me leaving my notes in class. The feeling of jealousy crept over when I recall that a buddy’s parents just bought the latest edition of Encyclopedia Brittanica, at least 5 years newer than my set at home.

Nowadays, everything is seemingly instantaneous. From television to banking, from dating to stock trading, from music to DIY projects, we can repeatedly click the mouse with our brains on autopilot, and results will appear on screen quicker than you can blink. For example:

“When in Rome, do as the Romans do.”

We take this to mean whenever you’re unsure of your surroundings, observe and copy behaviours of others. Well I have some good news; now we can prepare. Thanks to Google (founded 1998), why don’t we actually do what the Romans are doing?

I guess they’re abstaining from consuming or imbibing around the water fountains for one.

“If I jumped off a bridge, I suppose you would do that too.”

…is another saying that speaks to common sense. Ill-advised decisions shouldn’t be duplicated. In other words, do as I say, not as I do. Prior to 2005, when YouTube came online, I don’t imagine the RCMP had to issue statements warning folks to refrain from doing just that after a video went viral.

As healthcare providers, we are keenly aware of all of the knowledge available on the web. Unfortunately, much of it may be distorted by media reporting, bias, and even interpretation from family and friends. Disease states are emotional triggers for those receiving a difficult diagnosis. No sooner does the word diabetes leave a physician’s lips, then out comes a smartphone to research tests, diets, treatments, and outcomes.

This can be so overwhelming. As I see it, part of my role is to help sort out the vital information and deliver it in a way that puts someone at ease, and feeling more in control of how to use that information. Instead of overloading, we often need to have multiple conversations to reinforce and build on understanding. A clear mind with a clear path has a much better chance to succeed.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, employer or affiliation.