Read each statement and write down the number that best describes how true each statement is for you, as you are feeling now.*

III. Work Support

1. When I run into trouble, there are co-workers I can seek out for help.

2. The people around me care about me as a person.

3. I feel I can question and negotiate with supervisors about work assignments.

4. I am clear about what I am to do and what others expect from me.

5. I am not usually afraid that co-workers are critical of me behind my back.

6. People at work are more concerned about getting things done than about competing among themselves.

7. There are people I talk to each day informally.

8. I feel my abilities are valued by others at work.

9. Information is shared freely among people who should know things.

10. When I can’t do something on my own, I can take my problems to others and they will help.

11. I can ask for guidance and help from superiors.

12. The climate of my workplace is pleasant and comfortable.

13. When people are upset about something at work, it is usually talked about.

14. Many things about work are pleasant and enjoyable.

15. People are given what they need to complete the tasks they are assigned.

16. There are outlets to help me handle the frustrations and irritations of work.

*A score over 20 indicates a supportive work network and environment.

Note: Like the family support inventory, this assessment consists of positive statements.

How do you feel when you come home? Do you feel loved, safe, happy, protected, and calm? Do you feel angry, frustrated, unsafe, and on guard? Do you feel lonely, unaccepted, neglected, or ignored?

The first set of feelings helps your body and psyche relax after the demands and pressures of outside, while the other two response patterns inhibit your attempts to release the stress of the day, or trigger additional defensive stress responses.

To manage stress effectively and maintain balance in your life, one of the best resources is a household that is a safe refuge. Even living alone may be preferable to living in an embattled household, in terms of your stress level. Also, having people around you to whom you can turn to share pressures, fears, and struggles is helpful in coping with pressure that cannot be modified. Both friends and family can perform this function.

The support and help from your family, or from the people closest to you in your everyday life, take several forms. There is help with tasks and meeting the day’s demands – errands, housework, child care, and financial support. There is also support in having someone to talk to and share things with, for emotional release as well as helpful suggestions and opportunity to reflect on one’s life difficulties. There is the knowledge that somebody accepts you as you are and cares for you. And finally, there is the support of having someone to do things with, to share hobbies, leisure activities and have fun with.

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