Original URL: http://life.familyeducation.com/health/emotions/36636.html

Connection Check

Check out how "connected" you feel. You may be more alone or isolated than you realize. Give yourself one point for each "yes" answer.

• Do you lack a sense of self-worth?
• Do you lack enthusiasm?
• Are you bored?
• Do you feel lonely much of the time or find it difficult to be alone?
• Do you feel disconnected from your local community or your workplace?
• Do you lack good friends you can really talk to?
• Do you feel different, like the "odd one out"?
• Do you lack a sense of purpose or meaning in your life?
• Are you unclear about your spiritual values?
• Do you find it difficult to receive love from others?
• Do you lack a sense of peace and contentment?
• Do you seldom have experiences of great joy or love?
• Do you seldom feel a connection with nature?
• Do you abuse your body with bad diet, drugs, overwork, or lack of rest?

Any "Yes" answer indicates some measure of disconnection. Higher scores will reflect an underlying tendency to depression as well. If your mood score seems to correlate with this one, first cover the basics of the mood enhancers. Consider taking up group activities that promote all of these, such as yoga, t'ai chi, or meditation classes.

Scoring

1-5: You have some degree of disconnection.

6-10: Your level of disconnection is a cause for concern, and you may have a tendency toward depression.

11-14: You are experiencing a high degree of disconnection and should reevaluate your life regarding what is important to you. Besides following the advice above, consider seeing a counselor or psychotherapist, or attending a personal development course.

Learn about Natural Ways to Connect