A new survey by the American Psychological Association finds 8 out of 10 Americans say the economy is a significant source of stress in their lives.
And while everyone experiences stress, women in particular are saying they're feeling it to the extreme. The level of anxiety is similar to that right after the September 11th attacks.

Doctors at the Nebraska Medical Center say there are solutions, even talking to your regular physician can help.

The problems on wall street may seem far away, but worries and stress still hit home, even in the heartland. John Donlay, a shopper in the Old Market says, "I truly hope things will level out and I think they will, I certainly hope so."

Sheri Johnson owns a shop downtown and says business is good, but still stressful. "As a business owner, when we don't have money, the first bill that gets cut is my paycheck," says Johnson.

For Karen Mattes of Omaha, worrying about her money is stressful. "Well just watching the huge fluctuation everyday, how much have I lost today?"

According to Dr. Carl Greiner, a Psychiatirst with Nebraska Medical Center, all of us are hurting in some way with this.
He says to remember the three "A's" which are assessing your situation, asking a friend for help, and acting on a solution.

That may be getting out of the office, and away from all the stock market talk. Dr. Greiner says, "Not trying to track news stories hour by hour is probably a good idea, figure that you may check it once or twice a day, but not to overwhelm yourself with too much information."

Other ways to reducing stress may be as easy as getting exercise, or breathing in some fresh air. Dr. Greiner also suggests focusing on a spiritual sense in our lives. He says that can help keep us centered and grounded.

Dr. Greiner also says talking to children who are older than ten is important, especially if they ask questions. He says parents must be very honest about the family’s financial situation.