Stress Vulnerability Questionnaire

This stress vulnerability questionnaire was developed by two psychologists at Boston University Medical Center, L.H. Miller and A.D. Smith, and is reproduced by the SCI Noble Counseling Center of Caldwell, Ohio. To complete the questionnaire, read each statement carefully and reflect upon your typical behaviors. Then write the appropriate number indicating how often the statement applies to you using the following scale.

ALWAYS Always	Most of the Time	Sometimes	Almost Never	Never
1	2	3	4	5

___ 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 per week.

___ I am the appropriate weight for my height.

___ I have an income adequate to meet basic needs.

___ 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 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 (or tea or cola) a day.

___ I take quiet time for myself during the day.

___ I am in good health, including eyesight, hearing,

dental health, etc.

Now add up your scores for each statement. Scores will range from 20 to 100. If your score is less than 50, you are not vulnerable to stress at this time. Any score over 50 indicates vulnerability to stress. Evaluate the reasons for the stress and identify strategies for dealing with it. Periodically monitor your progress toward reducing stress. A score between 70 and 95 indicates a serious vulnerability to stress. Drastic lifestyle changes may be necessary to avoid the detrimental effects of stress. A score over 95 indicates extreme vulnerability to stress. Intervention and assistance from outside sources such as counselors may be necessary.