Q. How Vulnerable Are You to Stress?
A. The following test was developed by psychologists Lyle Miller and Alma Smith at Boston University Medical Center. Score each item from 1 (almost always) to 5 (never) according to how much of the time each statement applies to you.
1. I eat at least one hot, balanced meal a day.
2. I get seven to eight hours sleep at least four
nights a week.
3. I give and receive affection regularly.
4. I have at least one relative within 50 miles on
whom I can rely.
5. I exercise to the point of perspiration at least
twice a week.
6. I smoke less than half a pack of cigarettes a
day.
7. I take fewer than five alcoholic drinks a week.
8. I am the appropriate height for my weight.
9. I have an income adequate to meet basic
expenses.
10. I get strength from my spiritual beliefs.
11. I regularly attend club or social activities.
12. I have a network of friends and acquaintances.
13. I have one or more friends to confide in about
personal matters.
14. I am in good health (include eyesight, hearing,
teeth)
15. I am able to speak openly about my feelings
when angry or worried.
16. I have regular conversations with the people I
live with about domestic problems, i.e, chores, money and daily living issues.
17. I do something for fun at least once a week.
18. I am able to organize my time effectively.
19. I drink fewer than three cups of coffee (or tea
or cola drinks) a day.
20. I take quiet time for myself during the day.
TOTAL _________
To get your score, add up the figures and subtract 20. Any number over 30 indicates a vulnerability to stress. You are seriously vulnerable if your score is between 50 and 75, and extremely vulnerable if it is over 75.
Vicki L Mayfield, M.Ed., R.N., LMFT Marriage and Family Therapy Oklahoma City
If you would like to send a question to Vicki, email us at [email protected]
