With more responsibilities and obligations on their plates than ever before, adults are combating increased stress on a daily basis. In fact, in a report released by the American Psychological association, 27% of adults reported that on most days, they are too stressed to function. “Nearly half (46%) of those under 35 and more than half (56%) of Black adults under 35 agreed with this statement.1” This increased stress is directly affecting their well-being and quality of life and can lead to a variety of medical health conditions and issues with substance abuse. As mental health and wellness concerns rise, it can be difficult for practitioners to keep up with the demand, leaving many individuals without the care many so desperately need.
The impacts of stress
Around three-quarters of adults (76%) said they have experienced health impacts due to stress in the prior month, including: headache (38%), fatigue (35%), feeling nervous or anxious (34%), and/or feeling depressed or sad (33%).
Adults with a higher average stress level report experiencing headache (59%), fatigue (57%), feeling nervous or anxious (56%), and feeling depressed or sad (57%) due to stress in the past month.
Around seven in 10 adults (72%) have experienced additional health impacts due to stress, including: Feeling overwhelmed (33%), experiencing changes in sleeping habits (32%), and/or worrying constantly (30%).
Adults with a higher average stress level report experiencing feeling overwhelmed (57%), changes in sleeping habits (53%), constant worrying (53%), and using alcohol, cigarettes, or drugs to relax (30%).
Assessment and screening tools to help assess stress and quality of life
To help with the increased demand (and in some cases, staff shortages), we wanted to make you aware of some assessments that can be used by a variety of professionals you may already have in your office. These assessments are quick and many can be emailed ahead of time to supplement your clinical interview. They can also be used throughout your treatment to monitor progress and outcomes and to inform treatment plan changes.
These assessments can be administered by:
- Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC)
- Licensed Mental Health Counselors (LMHC)
- Licensed Professional Clinical Counselors (LPCC)
- National Certified Counselors (NCC)
- Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSW)
- Marriage and Family Therapists
- Psychiatric Nurses or Mental Health Nurse Practitioners