Holmes Stress Point Scale

Adult Assessment

Youth Assessment

Life’s pressures or stresses can have an effect on your physical health. The following scale is adapted from the ‘Social Readjustment Rating Scale,’ by Drs. Thomas Holmes and Richard Rahe (which originally appeared in the Journal of Psychosomatic Research, Vol.II, 1967). Do not attempt to add up a ‘score’ on this scale. The values are there to show the relative impact of stressful events experienced over the past year and to give some indication (and the list is by no means complete) of the wide range of stresses in our lives which may lead to possible health risks.

Use this scale in conjunction with the questions at the bottom of the page to Assess Your Stress.

Death of spouse

100

 

Foreclosure of mortgage or loan

25

Divorce

60

 

Sleep less than 8 hours per night

25

Menopause

60

 

Change in responsibilities ar work

25

Separation from living partner

60

 

Trouble with in-laws or children

25

Jail term or probation

60

 

Outstanding personal achievement

25

Death of close family member
(other than spouse)

60

 

Spouse begins or stops work

20

Serious personal injury or illness

45

 

Begin or end school

20

Marriage or establishing life partner

45

 

Change in living conditions
(visitors in home, new roommate, remodeling)

20

Fired at work

45

 

Change in personal habits
(diet, exercise, smoking)

20

Marital or relationship reconciliation

40

 

Chronic allergies

20

Retirement

40

 

Trouble with boss

20

Chage in health of immediate
family member

40

 

Change in work hours/conditions

15

Work more than 40 hours per week

35

 

Moving to new residence

15

Pregnancy or causing pregnancy

35

 

Presently in pre-menstrual period

15

Sex difficulties

35

 

Change in schools

15

Gain of new family member

35

 

Change in religious activities

15

Business or work role change

35

 

Change in social activities
(more/less)

15

Change in financial state

35

 

Minor financial loan

10

Death of a close friend

30

 

Change in frequency of family gatherings

10

Change in number of arguments
with spouse or life partner

30

 

Vacation

10

Mortgage or loan for a major purpose

25

 

Presently in winter holiday season

10

 

 

 

Minor violation of the law

5