The document describes a Life Change Index Scale that assigns numerical scores to various life events based on their estimated impact. A higher total score indicates a greater likelihood of illness in the near future, as the body does not cope well with sudden changes and disruptions to routines. Events like the death of a spouse (100 points) have the highest scores, while more minor events like a change in sleeping habits (16 points) have lower scores. The scale provides a way for individuals to informally assess their risk of stress-related illness based on recent or anticipated life changes.