A recent American Psychological Association survey found that eight out of ten Americans say the economy is a major souce of stress in their lives. Nearly half are worried about providing for their families' basic needs.

As the economic turmoil continues, there can be a ripple effect. And you or family members may experience symptoms such as irritability, insomnia, lack of motivation and feelings of sadness. What follows are some healthy strategies to help you work your way through these tough times.

Take pause but don’t overreact or become passive. As you attend to what’s going on around you, avoid getting caught up in doom-and-gloom mentality. This can lead to high levels of anxiety and bad decision making. Trty to remain calm and stay focused.

Be proactive by identifying your financial stressors and making a plan. Write down specific ways you and your family can reduce expenses or manage your finances more efficiently. Although putting it down on paper can be worrisome in the short term, committing to a plan will gradually reduce stress.

Get professional support. Credit counseling and financial planning can help you take control of your money situation. If you continue to feel overwhelmed, talk with a mental health professional who will help you understand the emotions behind your financial worries and show you ways to manage your stress.