 TITLE: How Can I Reduce the Anxiety I Feel When Spending Money? CONTENT: Paying Off Debt May Help Reduce Financial Anxiety\n-------------------------------------------------\nThe term \"nagging debt\" is right on the money. Debt belongs in its own category when it comes to financial stress. Why is hard-to-manage debt uniquely distressing?\n*   Monthly payments can make your finances unworkable.\n*   As spending, interest charges and fees snowball, debt can feel out of control.\n*   High credit card balances mean less available credit to use in a genuine emergency.\n*   High credit utilization affects your credit score. Lower credit scores make it harder to access loans and credit at desirable rates.\n*   Large debt can seem impossible to pay off.\nIf looming debt is causing you anxiety, it's time to take action. Paying down debt can be a slow process, but even as you go, reducing debt may reduce your anxiety levels as well. By taking control of the situation, you'll feel more empowered and less unnerved. As you activate your plan to pay down debt, don't forget to monitor your credit score and report to make sure your progress is being reflected.\nAnxiety over spending is annoying, and sometimes even debilitating. But it can also prompt you to practice better money management, clean up your credit practices, and set and achieve financial goals. Taking steps to address the cause, not just the symptoms, of your anxiety can help you lead a happier life. END