If overwhelming debt is causing you stress, you are not alone. Millions of Americans are suffering from anxiety and depression because they have difficulty paying their financial obligations. Whatever the cause of the debt–overspending, salary reduction, or emergency expenses – the actions you take to manage and beat the anxiety is the same.

Talk about it. The moment you begin to discuss it, you’ll feel a lot better. If you feel your “debting” is compulsive, you may want to talk to the professionals at Debtors Anonymous. Log on to debtorsanonymous.org or call 800-421-2383 to find a meeting near you.

Put it in perspective. Focus on the good things that are happening in your life. It’s hard, but you are going to need to be optimistic to make positive changes.

Fight inertia. Doing nothing will prolong the stress and get you nowhere. Get up and get out, but resist the urge to shop if your spending is out of hand. If you are already loaded down with debt, and keep receiving offers for more credit cards in the mail, destroy the printed materials and throw them away. Consider removing your name from promotional lists by visiting www.optoutprescreen.com or by calling 888-5-OPTOUT (888-567-8688).

Confront the problem. Rather than hiding from bill collectors, regain control by answering the calls. Be calm and rational. Understand the Fair Debt Collections Practices Act, a law that protects your rights as a consumer. (See https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/debt-collection-faqs). If you are unable to pay your Heritage Grove loans, contact our Collections Department at 503-485-4382.

Ask for Help. Heritage Grove has partnered with Balance to provide members with debt and budget coaching. Go to the Balance Debt and Budget Coaching Page for details or call Balance toll-free at 888-456-2227 to speak with a counselor. Balance will help you prioritize your expenses and develop a repayment plan.

The sooner you get started, the sooner you will reduce your anxiety, pay off debt and move closer to your financial goals. For more information, go to Balance.