Do you feel like your financial problem is taking its toll on you? Do you often find yourself anxious about your monthly bills? Are you feeling the pressure of having to deal with so many creditors? Do you sometimes wish you can simply escape from all your repayment obligations? Are you often irritated that your personal relationships are starting to be affected? Do you find yourself in an argument with spouse or family member because of money matters? If you answer yes to these questions, then you are not alone.
Millions of Americans today are feeling the pressure of having to deal with debt-related problems.
Truly, being stuck in a debt situation can be very stressful.
It can have a negative effect on your health because it can rob you of sleep, cause your blood pressure to rise, and disrupt your eating pattern.
What can you do to lessen your burden and ease your anxiety? The following suggestions should help you cope with debt-related stress more effectively:

1. Recognize the problem.
   Some people try to ignore the problem, thinking that it will go away on its own.
   But the longer you dismiss the problem, the worse it is more likely to be.
   On the other hand, the sooner you face the problem and work out a solution, the sooner you can be free from debt.
   
2. Do not panic.
   No matter howbad the problem seems to be, complaining or acting drastically is not a solution.
   Instead, you should sit down and take a look at your situation objectively.
   Order a copy of your credit report from each of the three major bureaus so you can be aware of the status of your debts.
   Examine each account and make sure that there are no unauthorized charges which add up to your debts.
   You can think of an effective solution if you are calm than when in distress.
   
3. Don't dwell in the problem.
   Rather than wait and do nothing, you should take positive action immediately.
   If you have lost your job, start searching for new employment now.
   Find ways to cut back on your expenses.
   If your present earnings isn't enough to cover for all your bills, consider getting a second-job.
   
4. Do not hide from your creditors.
   Hiding from your creditors will not make the problem go away.
   If you refuse to get in touch with your creditor, it might be forced to take legal action against you.
   Hence, the best thing to do is to speak with your creditors and negotiate your debt repayment.
   Most creditors would willingly adjust their terms to help a borrower catch up with repayment.
   
5. Seek professional help.
   IF you're not sure what to do, don't be afraid to ask advice from an expert.
   Check out the National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC.
   org) to find a legitimate credit counseling agency nearest your city.
   A professional credit counselor would be able to help you create a debt repayment plan and give you correct advice to keep the problem from worsening.
   Knowing that you have the right kind of support will also give you peace of mind and ease your burden.