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Assess Your Stress

Take this quiz* to find our how you're responding to the events in your life.

Do you...	Often	Sometimes	Rarely
Regret being angry or short-tempered with others?
Feel like your emotions are getting the best of you?
Use alcohol, cigarettes or drugs to cope with stress? (prescription, counter or street drugs)
Have sleep problems (either can't fall asleep, or can't get enough restful sleep?)
Feel like things in your life are overwhelming or out of control?
Laugh or smile less than you used to?
Yell, cry or withdraw a lot?
Feel sad, disappointed or worried?
Eat too much (or too little) when you're stressed?
Hate admitting that you're not in control of your life?
Have trouble "letting go" of things that are bothering you?
Have too little time for family, friends, exercise, relaxation or hobbies?
Over-blame yourself or think that nothing goes right?
	Often	Sometimes	Rarely
Add up and enter your totals

How did you do?

If you've checked "often" or "sometimes" in four questions or more, it may be time to address your stress.
(* This quiz is for information and awareness purposes only. It is not a diagnostic tool. A high score simply indicates you are feeling stressed.)

Address your stress

Stress is a normal part of your life and you can't always control the situations that surround you. You can, however, decide how you are going to react and how you will prevent stress from taking control of you.

Do some detective work

Pinpoint the sources of your stress so you can deal with it. Talk things through with a trusted friend, family member, counselor or spiritual adviser. Keep a journal to help you determine what is causing you stress.

Take action

Not being in control of a situation can add to the stress you are feeling. Think about the steps you can take a deal with the stressful situation, then take action.

Get physical

Exercise can help relieve your stress. Take a walk, stretch, shoot some hoops with a friend or do an activity you like to do. Regular exercise will help you cope with stressful situations in the future.

Eat well, be well

A well-nourished body gives you more resources to manage stress. Enjoy the taste experience of different vegetables, fruit, whole-grain foods, and protein-rich meat. Drink lots of water and cut down on the sugar and caffeine (in pop. coffee and tea).

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Sponsored by the Government of Manitoba, Department of Healthy Living.
© 2009-2011 Klinic Community Health Centre • Winnipeg Manitoba Canada