Even though the essentials of sound nutrition and exercise being a “no-brainer,” all too often people lack an idea of what are the key elements in “Mental Wellness.” To support this point, at a recent “Lunch and Learn” presentation to about 40 company employees, I asked them to tell me what are some guidelines to staying physically fit. Not surprisingly, there was no shortage of very appropriate answers. However, when I asked them to offer guidelines for “Mental Fitness” all I got were blank stares and puzzled expressions!

To start, here is a quick quiz to get an approximate gauge of your Mental Wellness I.Q.

Below are 8 items that you may agree with or disagree with. On a scale of 1 to 7, rate your level of agreement with each item, being honest and open with yourself. On the comments below I would love to hear how you did!

7 Strongly Agree
6 Agree
5 Slightly Agree
4 Neither Agree or Disagree
3 Slightly disagree
2 Disagree
1 Strongly disagree
_____ I feel satisfied with who I am and where I am in my life
_____ I refuse to allow regrets and disappointments cloud “today”
_____ I feel a strong sense of connection with others and do not feel isolated
_____ I tend to think rationally and optimistically
_____ I do not hold onto grudges and can forgive others for not living up to my expectations
______ I feel a great sense of control over my emotions, thoughts and feelings
______ I have a healthy sense of humor and can laugh at life’s imperfections
______ I feel more gratitude on how my life is now rather than focus on what’s lacking

Total your score here: ____________

Mental Fitness Range:

51-56 Mental Wellness is extraordinary!
46- 50 High level of Mental Wellness
40-46 Moderate level of Mental Wellness
32-39 Mental Wellness needs some boosting!
24-31 Mental Welness is posing problems for optimal health – needs work!
16-23 Needs improvement! Actively work on improving your Mental Wellness
Below 15 Danger Zone!