Life Stress Questionnaire

Have you had any of the following things happen to you during the past year? Jot down the numbers following each of the events you’ve experienced, and add them up to get your grand total.

 

Life Event Point Value


Change in social activities 15

Change in sleeping habits 15

Change in residence 20

Change in work hours 20

Change in church activities 20

Tension at work 25

Small children in the home 25

Change in living conditions 25

Outstanding personal achievement 30

Problem teenager(s) in the home 30

Trouble with in-laws 30

Difficulties with peer group 30

Son or daughter leaving home 30

Change in responsibilities at work 30

Taking over major financial responsibility 30

Foreclosure of mortgage or loan 30

Change in relationship with spouse 35

Change to different line of work 35

Loss of a close friend 35

Gain of a new family member 40

Sexual difficulties 40

Pregnancy 40

Change in health of family member 45

Retirement 45

Loss of job 50

Change in quality of religious faith 50

Marriage 50

Personal injury or illness 50

Loss of self-confidence 60

Death of a close family member 60

Injury to reputation 60

Trouble with the law 65

Marital separation 65

Divorce 75

Death of a spouse 100

YOUR TOTAL  ____

 

Your total score measures the amount of stress to which you have been subjected. A score of 150 or less is just about the normal level most of us deal with on an ongoing basis. Continue reading this chapter for some suggestions on handling your stress even better. With a score of 150 to 250, you’re seriously stressed and most likely are experiencing the effects of toxic stress. You’ll certainly benefit from the Vibrant Health Plan in this chapter. If you scored 250 to 300, you’re clearly in a stress-overload situation, and the information in this chapter will help you regain your ability to cope. Above a score of 350, you are seriously stressed and need to take action with all the resources nthe book offers—now. If your score is over 350, you might consider seeking professional help through this difficult time in your life.