Stress Test

The following stress test was developed by psychologists Lyle H. Miller and Alma Dell Smith at Boston University Medical Centre.

Choose a number from 1 (almost always) to 5 (almost never) next to each statement, according to how much of the time each statement applies to you. Then press the 'Calculate' button to check your vulnerability to stress - the more points you score, the higher your vulnerability!

I eat at least one hot, balanced meal
a day
I get seven to eight hours of sleep at least four nights a week
I give and receive affection regularly
I have at least one relative within 50 miles on whom I can rely
I exercise to the point of perspiration at least twice a week
I smoke less than half a pack of cigarettes a day
I take fewer than five alcoholic drinks
a week
I am the appropriate weight for
my height
I have an income adequate to meet basic expenses
I get strength from my religious beliefs
I regularly attend club or social activities
I have a network of friends and acquaintances
I have one or more friends to confide in about personal matters
I am in good health - including eyesight, hearing and teeth
I am able to speak openly about my feelings when angry or worried
I have regular conversations with the people I live with about domestic problems, such as chores, money and daily living issues
I do something for fun at least once
a week
I am able to organize my time effectively
I drink fewer than three cups of coffee, tea or high-caffeine drinks a day
I take quiet time for myself during
the day

  

 

 
stress test




In moments of stress, the body releases adrenaline to help you cope with the added pressure, followed by the hormone cortisol to counteract it.

Over time, this reaction to stress can lead to numerous emotional problems, including anxiety, depression and insomnia, or physical illness such as IBS, high blood pressure or heart disease.