Life Changes and Stress Test

The most famous stress test is probably the one below that was developed by Dr. Thomas H. Holmes and Dr. Richard H. Rahe. This test examines the stress factors in your life and the likelihood of stress related illness or accident. These stress factors are measured by Life Change Units (LCUs). By adding the LCU values of the past year, you can measure the likelihood of stress in your life. This test, now in public domain, is provided for your use as a check.  It is not intended to give you a right or wrong answer.

By taking this test and reading the results you agree not to hold AMTA liable for the response or your reaction.  Taking of this test is not meant as an alternative to seeking help from a professional.  Every individual handles stress in different ways at different times of their life.  It is up to you to seek help if you feel you need it, especially if this test scores above 300 LCUs.   Research has told us that massage therapy may prove to be helpful in relieving stress for some individuals. It will help you to relax and relieve stress, but it should never take the place of professional counsel.

  • Total LCUs below 150 = Your level of stress is LOW
  • Total LCUs between 150-300 = Your level of stress is BORDERLINE, you may want to take a look at what is happening in your life
  • Total LCUs over 300 = Your level of stress is HIGH, if it continues you may want to seek help from a professional

Select each of the stressors you experienced over the past 12 months. Add the LCUs to derive your total.

Death of a Spouse
Divorce
Marital Separation
Detention in jail or institution
Death of a close family member
Major personal injury or illness
Marriage
Being fired at work
Marital reconciliation
Retirement
Major change in health or behavior of a family member
Pregnancy
Sexual Difficulty
Gaining a new family member through birth, adoption or remarriage
Major business readjustments
Major change in financial state
Death of a close friend
Change to a different line of work
Major increase in fights with spouse
Taking on a mortgage
Foreclosure on a mortgage or loan
Major change in responsibility at work
Son or daughter leaving home
In-Law troubles
Outstanding personal achievement
Spouse begins to cease work outside of home
Go back to school
Major change in living condition (rebuilding, remodeling)
Revision of personal habits
Troubles with superior, boss
Major change in working hours, conditions
Change in residence
Change to a new school
Major change in usual type and/or amount of recreation
Major change in church activities
Major change in social activities
Purchasing a new car, or other big purchase
Major change in sleeping habits
Major change in number of family get togethers
Major change in eating habits
Vacation
Christmas or holiday observance
Minor violations of the law