Gain control of personal debt

Dear Readers: Whelp, we’ve probably known about it for a while, and we just don’t like to face it or talk about it: debt. The average American has anywhere between $40,000 a n d $90,000 in total debt, many experts agree.

Debt can come from many sources, but a big reason for all of this debt is our relationship with money and how it connects with our emotional well-being. People suffering from anxiety, depression and/ or untreated trauma can misuse money. Steps to help? Here are a few:

■ “Self-care” is a term we’re hearing a lot now. You must take care of yourself. Get enough sleep, but not too much. Get up and get out of bed every day and take a shower and get dressed. Eat healthfully, get some light exercise and spend time with supportive friends. If you are depressed, tell your doctor.

■ Face the facts. Don’t feel scared or overwhelmed, just sit down and understand where you are in your financial journey. Open those credit card statements instead of just putting them directly in the trash. Call the card companies and tell them you are struggling. They will listen to you and work with you.

■ Put yourself on a written budget, or work with a family member to help put yourself on a budget. You might need to cut back temporarily on a few things: i.e., gym membership, cable TV, weekly lawn service, pedicures.

■ Give yourself time. Getting out of debt will not happen overnight. But when you cultivate healthy money habits, you set yourself up for the win! — Heloise