FACING FINANCIAL TROUBLES

Financial problems affect people of all ages and walks of life. Financial problems occur for many different reasons such as:

difficult economic times
corporate downsizing and lay-offs
changes in technology
lack of education or lack of job training
death of a wage earner within a family
divorce
inappropriate use of credit and
unexpected, unprepared for expenses including home or automobile repairs or replacement, educational costs, increased tax payments, or medical expenses

Financial problems can be stressful and may contribute to depression. Finances are the number one source of argument for married couples, as well as a major cause of divorce.

Compulsive shopping, illegal drug abuse, and gambling can cause serious financial problems. If you or a loved one is feeling out of control over spending and your finances, there is help.

There are non-profit agencies that can help you manage your finances. They can assist with:

credit restoration
reducing interest charges
stopping collection calls
stopping foreclosure on home property
budget counseling
debt repayment plans and
financial workshops

Call the National Credit Counseling Services or Consumer Credit Counseling Services for help. If you are concerned about compulsive spending, drug abuse, or gambling, look in your white pages for local chapters of Gambler's Anonymous or Debtor's Anonymous. These self-help groups can help you get a handle on your problems.

The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence fights the stigma and disease of alcoholism and drug addictions. Visit their website at www.ncadd.org or call 800-622-2255.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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