Check each symptom that you have experienced in the last month, and then count the number of items that you have checked. The symptoms must be experienced to the level that you identify it as a problem.
PSYCHOLOGICAL SYMPTOMS
- anxiety
- depression
- difficulty concentrating
- forgetfulness
- agitation, hyper
- feeling overwhelmed
- irrational thoughts/fears
- compulsive behaviour
- confusion
- feelings of unreality
- feelings of being detached from onself
- restless/on edge
- mood swings
- loneliness
- intrusive thoughts
- relationship problems
- family problems work problems
- irritability
- excessive worry/obsessing
- feelings of guilt
- tearful
- nightmares
- social isolation/withdrawal
- sexual dysfunction
PHYSICAL SYMPTOMS
- headaches
- muscles tension
- low back pain
- upper back, neck, or shoulder pain
- clenching teeth
- abdominal distress
- nausea
- shaking or trembling
- numbness or tingling
- feeling of choking
- chills or hot flashes
- sweating
- sleep disturbance
- fatigue
- high blood pressure
- appetite disturbance
- diarrhoea
- digestive problems
- constipation
- rash/hives/shingles
- use of alcohol/cigarettes or other drugs to deal with stress
- bowel problems
- thyroid dysfunction
- other stress-related health problems
ESTIMATE YOUR STRESS LEVEL
Number of items checked Estimated level of stress
0-7 low (within normal range)
8-14 moderate (experiencing some distress)
15-21 high (experiencing difficulty coping)
22+ very high (unable to cope)
As you review your symptoms list think of ways that you can take care of yourself, make changes, tasks to others, etc. that can alleviate the physical and emotional distress that you experience.