Department of Family Services – Domestic and Sexual Violence Services

CONTACT INFORMATION: Monday–Friday 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
703-324-5730 TTY 711
12011 Government Center Parkway, Pennino Building, Floor 7, Suite 740
Fairfax, VA 22035
Toni Zollicoffer
Director

Self-Care Corner: Are You Practicing Good Self-Care?

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(Posted 2022 May)

self-care-quiz cropped.pngAre You Practicing Good Self-Care? A Quiz

How good are you at practicing good self-care? Take this quiz to find out! Answer each question with Frequently, Occasionally, Rarely, or Never.

1.    I eat regularly (breakfast, lunch, dinner or after fasting)
2.    I exercise or do a fun physical activity if I’m feeling stressed
3.    I slow down and take care of myself when I’m sick (get medical care, take time off work, rest)
4.    I get enough sleep (7-8 hours/night)
5.    I make time to be with my thoughts and self-reflect
6.    I take time to express my thoughts and feelings or have a creative outlet (i.e., writing in a journal, painting)
7.    I say no when my calendar is full
8.    I spend time with people who make me happy
9.    I love myself and give myself positive affirmations
10.    I show emotions
11.    I make time to do important things, like, budget, pay bills, or study    
12.    I ask for help if I need it
13.    I unplug from social media, especially if it’s harmful
14.    I make quiet time for myself to complete necessary tasks
15.    I take time to talk to and get to know others (coworkers, neighbors, peers)
16.    I set boundaries in my relationships
17.    I take deep breaths if I find myself overwhelmed and tend to my feelings
18.    I strive for balance between work, family, relationships, play and rest
19.    I spend time with loved ones in spaces that make me feel comfortable

Scoring

Give yourself 1 for each Never; 2 for each Rarely; 3 for each Occasionally; and 4 for each Frequently. 

1-19: You may not be practicing a whole lot of self-care, but you can change this! Self-care is taking time to care for yourself in whatever way works best for you. Self-care is not selfish but self-love.
20-39: You may be practicing a little self-care but could use some more guidance on how to best take care of self. 
40-59: You are doing a good job taking care of you! Self-care is important for your emotional, mental, and physical well-being, so keep it up! If you’re used to doing the same techniques or methods, maybe incorporate something new into your repertoire. If you usually journal your feelings, try your hand at art. If you always go for a run, try incorporating yoga or deep breathing exercises. New experiences can be fun!
60-76: You’ve got this self-care thing down and are excellent at taking those moments to focus on yourself and your well-being. Keep it up! Self-care can be a positive thing, especially for people who have experienced trauma.

 


This article posting is part of the Domestic and Sexual Violence Services' Volunteer Voices monthly newsletter for current and potential volunteers. If you're not already a volunteer, learn how to get involved. Find out about upcoming trainings, volunteer trainings, happenings around the DSVS office and information about articles, books, media recommendations and more.

Learn more about the Domestic and Sexual Violence Services (DSVS).

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