Certain aspects of our habits, our lifestyles, and our environments can make each of us more or less vulnerable to the negative effects of stress. This assessment is not designed to make a diagnosis or take the place of a professional diagnosis. Score each item as follows:

(0) Not applicable (1) Almost Always (2) Frequently (3) Sometimes (4) Rarely (5) Never

____ 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 (non-smokers=almost always).
____ I drink fewer than five alcoholic drinks a week (non-drinkers=almost always).
____ I am the appropriate weight for my height.
____ I have an income adequate to meet basic needs.
____ I get strength from my religious/spiritual beliefs.
____ I regularly attend club and 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, teeth, etc.).
____ I am able to speak openly about my feeling when angry or worried.
____ I have regular conversations with people I live with about domestic problems.
____ I do something for fun at least once a week.
____ I am able to organize my time effectively.
____ I drink fewer than three caffeine drinks a day.
____ I take quiet time for myself during the day.

What your score means:
0-10 excellent resistance to the vulnerability of stress
11-29 little vulnerability to stress
30-49 some vulnerability to stress
50-74 serious vulnerability to stress
75-80 extreme vulnerability to stress

Reference and Resource: 1. University of California, Berkeley Wellness Letter, August, 1985.
Scale Developers: Lyle Miller, Ph.D. and Alma Dell Smith, Ph.D. of Boston University Medical Center.