The last 18 months has been a challenging time for everyone. You've probably experienced moments when you questioned whether or not you could "get through" the upheavals and major life changes. So when and how do you decide to seek help?

If you're having a few rough days, you're probably dealing with things adequately.  But if you are consistently feeling overwhelmed, out of control, or unable to cope, you may wish to reach out for guidance. Prevention is always the best form of treatment. You should be proactive to achieve better outcomes. To determine if you need support, 

Ask yourself the following questions and truthfully answer yes or no.

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How do you feel about simple pleasures? Do you get genuine satisfaction from them? 

§  Are you respectful of yourself? 

§  How do you cope with your own mistakes? Can you laugh at them? 

§  What are your experiences with handling situations that come your way? Do you feel prepared to deal with them? 

§  How well do you handle showing your own emotions, such as fear, anger, jealousy, guilt, and worry?   Are you comfortable with them?

§  Do you have personal relationships that are satisfying and lasting?

§  Do you trust others and assume that others will trust you? 

§  Are you tolerant of differences in viewpoints? 

§  Do you feel connected to others?

§  Are you able to love someone?  

§  Are you accepting as much responsibility as you are given?

§  Do you make your own decisions? 

§  Are you quick to resolve your problems when they arise? 

§  Do you shape your environment whenever possible and adjust to it whenever necessary? 

If you are truly honest, you will get a good idea of where you are in your mental state. There is no right or wrong and no good or bad.  There is just an evaluation of how you are feeling and how you are dealing with life. 

Count up the number of "no" answers. If you don't have any, you are exceptional.  Well done!   A couple of "no" answers is normal and is absolutely nothing to be concerned about. 

If, however, you answered "no" to more than five questions, there is a good chance you could benefit from some type of counselling or coaching to help get you back on track.

The fact you are able to take this test is a good indicator that, with proper coaching, you will be just fine. Just don't let it go until more answers turn to no.

You deserve to enjoy the best mental health possible. Don't neglect it.

By the way, if you answered NO to taking responsibility for yourself, and yet you've done this test and have decided to get help, you have already taken responsibility and already turned a NO into a YES! You are a hero and can do anything!