When you feel the burden of your debt, don't panic. Ask for help. If you're not sure you're at this state of need, ask yourself the following questions:

• Do I use my credit card almost every day?
• Do I use one credit card to pay the bills on another card?
• Am I continually late on payments?
• Am I only paying the minimum amount due?
• Have I lost track of how much I owe?

If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, you may need help. There are many agencies, such as the Consumer Credit Counseling Service that can help you at no cost. Contact the National Foundation for Credit Counseling at www.nfcc.org or 1-800-388-2227 to find the nearest credit counseling service.