If you find yourself in trouble financially, there are usually no easy answers — but there are many ways out for those willing to commit to changing their financial habits.

Your ability to pay your bills can be affected by situations beyond your control such as serious illness, divorce or the sudden loss of a job. Poor financial management can also threaten your economic security. You may be able to juggle your creditors for a time, but eventually you may come to realize you need help in resolving your financial problems.

The first step in regaining financial control is to limit, if not eliminate, the use of consumer debt. Getting yourself on a well planned budget and keeping track of your expenses will help cut down on nonessential purchases which often result in credit card debt. Using a credit card for purchases will delay, but exacerbate your financial difficulties.

Whenever possible, it is best to pay your living expenses in cash, using credit only as a convenience that you pay off in full at the end of each month. If you cannot pay your bills in cash, you need to seriously consider your standard of living and how you can get by on less. Sit down and make a plan that's livable for you.

The National Foundation for Consumer Credit (NFCC) is a non-profit organization with offices in all 50 states. The NFCC can help you arrange repayment plans that fit your income level and ability. They will study your debts, analyze your income and help you work out ways to overcome your financial problems. You can call 800-388-2227 for information about the closest member agency.

If you have equity in your home, you may want to consider a home equity loan. A home equity loan can consolidate all your consumer debt into a single loan, usually with a lower interest rate and often with income tax deductible interest. Be careful not to tap into your equity, only to run up consumer debt again.

If you create a strict plan for eliminating your consumer debts and stick with it, it will typically take between three and four years to implement your plan. The first step in any debt reduction plan is a sincere commitment by the entire family to control spending and eliminate financial waste.

Bankruptcy should be considered only as a solution of last resort. Bankruptcy carries many negative implications and should not be entered into lightly. It's always smart to consult an attorney before filing; in some cases it's required. You can usually retain your home, personal belongings and an automobile necessary for you to work. However, remember that bankruptcy does not change the habits that created the financial difficulties in the first place.

There is life after debt — but it always requires financial discipline and a commitment to living within ones means.