Is there an "app" for that?

Today I joined Facebook, got the Facebook "app", and have spent way too much time finding "friends" and getting acquainted with the whole idea.

I also read this article on multitasking and technology from today's New York Times...and I'm a bit scared.

I just love my iPhone, but I am afraid that some of the things mentioned in the article are happening to me.

Example One: When visiting my mother at the nursing home I often hear a "ping" in my purse as I get a notification of a new e-mail. I continue my conversation with my mother, but lurking in the back of my brain is that unseen e-mail. It nags at me to the point that I check my e-mail before I even turn on the ignition in the car - even though I know it's probably just AA telling me of some great new airfares.

Example Two: When I awaken and can't get back to sleep in the middle of the night, I often go to the living room, lie on the couch and read until I'm drowsy again. While on the couch I often hear a "ping" from the kitchen where my phone is hooked up for its nightly feeding. It takes a great deal of effort to not get up and see what exciting e-mail just arrived...even though I know that the only e-mail I get at 3:00 a.m. is a Viagra ad sent to "Mr. Alice."

Example Three: I'm anticipating one of my favorite yearly events this weekend...three blissful days with my long time teaching friends up in Michigan. As I look forward to gossip, wine, silliness, and wonderful lake scenery, there is a little nag in the back of my head. I don't think AT+T reception is good at my friend's lake house! In spite of being surrounded by nine incredible friends, part of me worries I might be delayed in getting those wonderful messages from pharmaceutical companies, Russian bride agencies and symphony orchestras in far-flung cities.

Example Four: I'm driving and hear that "ping". No, I don't look at the phone while I'm driving...but....if I'm stopped at a light I have to take a quick peek at the clothing store ad that certainly couldn't wait fifteen minutes.

It has been suggested that I simply go to "preferences" and turn off the "ping" but I can't and I'm worried about the fact that I can't.

What's next? Will my "ping" addiction lead to stronger "drugs"...maybe one of those awful BlueTooth things in my ear? Will I need to check the new Facebook page twenty times a day? Will I start to get up off that couch to open my e-mail at 3:00 a.m.? Will I become as distracted and poor-performing as the article suggests?

Is there an "app" for iPhone addictions?