STRESS MANAGEMENT QUIZ  Ten members enjoyed the presentation on stress management presented in April. The presentation was a hands on, interactive evening where we all learned just how vulnerable to stress we actually are! Take the following quiz to determine how vulnerable you are then read on for ways to understand and deal with stress.  Reprinted courtesy of Barbara Cleland with Children and Family Services of New Hampshire

Score each item from 1 (almost always) to 5 (never) according to how much of the time each statement applies to you.

___ I eat at least one hot balanced meal a day.
___ I get seven to eight hours 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 that five alcoholic drinks a week.
___ I am the appropriate weight for my height.
___ I have an income adequate to meet basic expenses.
___ 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 in good health (including eyesight, hearing, teeth).
___ I am able to speak openly about my feelings when angry or worried.

To get your score, add up the figures and subtract 20. Any number over 30 indicates a vulnerability to stress. You are seriously vulnerable if your score is between 50 and 75, and extremely vulnerable if it is over 75.
Regardless of your score, parenthood is stressful, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. To be able to cope we need to learn how to handle stress. Listed below are 10 ways to relieve tension.

1. Go to another room, count to 10.
2. Go to another room close the door and let it out - cry or scream. Then do something that relaxes you for 10 minutes.
3. Lie on the couch, put your feet up, and place a cool washcloth over your eyes and forehead. Take a couple of breaths and think of a peaceful scene. Lie there for at least five minutes.
4. Call someone who cares about you. Tell them what's bothering you and get the support you need.
5. Designate a quiet space for you and a separate one for your child. When you're upset and feel as if you may loose your temper, tell your child you need a break and go to your designated space for a few minutes to calm down.
6. Talk to your child about your anger, be specific. For example, you might say, "I get angry when you..."
7. If your children are young, take some time for yourself while they're napping. Do what ever relaxes you - take a bath, sleep or listen to music.
8. Remember children feel stress and tension too. Dolls, make-believe games or puppets can help children express feelings in a safe way.
9. Change your routine. Take a walk, take the children to the park go outside and play a game, talk to a friend, watch a special program on television or take a cool bath on a hot day. It's important for you and your children to change your daily routine.
10. Do something physical. Physical activity is good for both you and
your kids; it lets off steam. Reward yourself and your children when things are going well: hug your kids and tell them you love them. Compliment your kids for the good things. Do something fun together. Treat the kids and yourself to something special for doing so well. Give yourself a pat on the back!