Financial literacy is defined as the ability to manage one’s financial resources effectively for lifetime financial security. Money, or financial security, represents different things to different people. Some see it as a means to an end. Others, as the one and only end, the be-all-and-end-all in life. Some are literate and manage finances well. Others, not so much.

Behind the headlines about devastation caused by natural disasters and human-caused terror are untold tales of suffering brought on by “collateral losses” such as people’s finances. People can experience high degrees of stress when it comes to money. Symptoms range from anxiety and nervousness to depression and despair, including thoughts of suicide and acting on those thoughts. Children are impacted by parents’ problems with money, yet their emotional needs often are overlooked, unrecognized or dismissed. If you and/or loved ones are struggling financially, there is help. You do not have to suffer in silence. Please reach out. There are many places to get help with finances. Here are links to some resources listed by the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists (AAMFT.org):

• Financial Planning Association (FPA): The primary professional organization representing financial planners.
• Financial Planners: Offers a list of financial planners by geographic location.
• Comptroller of the Currency Administrator of National Banks: This site assists customers of national banks and helps them find answers to national banking questions.
• Your Good Credit series from University of Georgia: Information for all audiences about the wise use of credit. Topics include credit reports, credit scores, avoiding credit pitfalls, getting out of debt and bankruptcy.
• Institute for Financial Literacy: The mission of the Institute is to make effective financial literacy education available for all American adults.
• MyMoney.gov: The U.S. government’s website dedicated to teaching all Americans the basics about financial education.
• National Endowment for Financial Education: This site offers help in learning to manage money, no matter the financial challenge. Articles, tools and other resources are available.