New Insights on "Never-enough-itis"

NEI from Diagnosis to Treatment to Hope

Many of you reading this may not be aware of a recently discovered, but long existing illness called neverenoughitis. “NEI” is a spectrum disorder which has mushroomed to epidemic proportions during this and the last century. Though there are pockets documented worldwide, it is particularly prevalent in the United States.

Over the next few minutes, I’d like to share the preliminary findings regarding this newly elucidated and potentially fatal disorder - which I just made up.

Photography by Karolina Grabowska - Unsplash

What it is -

Derived from the Latin - numquam satis itis, neverenoughitis is defined by insatiable and maladaptive consumption, acquisition or yearning. Though this malady certainly has features in common with addictions or obsessions, the origins, development and manifestations of NEI are much more complex.

Typically, this characteristic pursuit is completely detached from any concern regarding its consequences for others beyond relatively small familial or social circles. It frequently involves sensory gratification with various levels of immorality and criminality.

As with any spectrum disorder, the traits may be fairly common across populations but in effected individuals, they are pervasive. The human tendencies toward compassion and or reason have also been suppressed if not totally lost. Those effected are much more concerned about their own heightened level of comfort today than they are about the health of the planet that will sustain their own progeny down the road.

Examples of neverenoughitis -

The premium athlete who is at the top of his or her game and yet still feels compelled to cheat.

The rising entertainer, successful business leader, esteemed preacher with the amazing spouse, wonderful children and limitless talent who turns to illicit drugs or extra-marital affairs to fill the emptiness which the disorder creates. While all types of substance abuse are complex, a large portion of addicted Americans may be found to suffer from some level of NEI.

Any middle or upper-class individual who lives in the wealthiest country in the world who makes critical political decisions while prioritizing the question - “Am I better off than four years ago?”

The millionaire and billionaire elites who joust for huge tax cuts which will undermine the programs that large portions of Americans have contributed to and rely on for their very survival.

The politicians or entrepreneurs whose ceaseless quest for more power and wealth comes at the clear expense of the freedoms, health and welfare of the masses for generations to come.

Treatment options -

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy can certainly be helpful but there are no certified counselors in this new and burgeoning field.

Reality testing in conjunction with a slow reintroduction to everyday people who aren’t spoiled brats has considerable potential. Volunteer work to help serve the needy and marginalized may also help extricate those heads which are buried in the sand or residing in warm dirty places.

Keeping a gratitude journal may also contribute to a healthier perspective especially when limited to non-material assets.

Literally giving money away in sacrificial amounts to causes that are not self-serving can remove the false sense of powerlessness which can accompany advanced NEI. The mere study of legitimate and altruistic organizations can help move one’s focus away from the self which has taken on gigantic proportions with the disorder.

Reasons for hope -

While NEI is a chronic disorder it has many variants suggesting that there are both recessive and dominant genes which produce the different phenotypes. So, stay tuned as the research results start to pour in.

Many of those who suffer from this disorder will eventually go into remission as they mature, though childlike patterns tend to persist if reinforced through adulthood. As this condition comes to light an evolving society would surely prioritize early intervention including in our houses of worship. Just imagine the congregants pushing aside the golden calf to make room for compassion.