PCs are all the rage!

Nearly half of computer users in the UK now suffer from PC rage, according to new research.

Nearly half of computer users in the UK now suffer from PC rage, according to new research, with the most common symptoms being hitting the computer, abusing colleagues and hurling equipment across the room.

The research, commissioned by software company Symantec and carried out by NOP, found that 57 per cent of the small companies surveyed admitted to having lost productivity as a result of PC problems.

Furthermore, over a quarter of those surveyed admitted suffering computer problems on a weekly or daily basis.

The findings suggest that the growing reliance on computers is only adding to workplace stress, which kicks in when computers fail.

"Over half of all working days lost to sickness in the UK are related to workplace stress," says Fiona Dennis, stress management trainer with Priory Healthcare.

"Individuals are expected to achieve a higher performance level in all areas of their lives and have become slaves to technology."

The solution, ironically, is yet more technology, according to Aled Miles, managing director UK and Eire at Symantec.

"People need not suffer. With a utilities software package such as Norton SystemWorks, PC rage can become a thing of the past," he said. Well, he would, wouldn't he?