How Stressed Are You?

You may feel very distressed by the impact that supporting someone with psychosis or bipolar disorder has had on you. This is understandable and very common. Research shows that, in general, relatives go through periods of high levels of depression, anxiety, burden and distress.

Consider the following questions to see how you are doing right now.

Do you feel angry and irritable?

  • Always
  • Sometimes
  • Never

Do you feel that you haven’t got enough time to do everything important?

  • Always
  • Sometimes
  • Never

At night do you sleep for less than 7 hours?

  • Always
  • Sometimes
  • Never

Do you feel that you haven’t got enough time for your family and friends

  • Always
  • Sometimes
  • Never

Do you feel worried, anxious, or nervous?

  • Always
  • Sometimes
  • Never

How did you score?

Mostly ‘Always’

You are clearly distressed and feeling under a lot of strain at the present time. The following section explains the importance of looking after yourself. You may find some useful tips to bring down your stress levels.

Mostly ‘Sometimes’

You seem to be handling daily challenges well. It is still important to make sure that you are looking after yourself.

Mostly ‘Never’

Almost nothing fazes you. You are able to keep your stress levels to a minimum and cope with everyday challenges that face you. It is perhaps still beneficial for you to be aware of what might trigger your stress in the future and how you would cope with this.