Denver -- With all the talk of a recession and the rising cost of food and gas, financial stress can take its toll.

But there are ways to help beat the stress by combining a practical and psychological approach, according to clinical psychologist Dr. Tom Giles, of the Westside Behavioral Care.

Be sure to consolidate your debt and reduce expenses. The less money you spend, the less stress you'll have.

Find a support group that will be positive and give you ideas.

Be sure to take your time and don't react too quickly

"Sometimes people get so worried that they jump at any opportunity provided to them without first really considering whether it's a good thing or not," Dr. Giles said.

Another component of financial stress is the anxiety. Not obsessing and finding distractions can take your mind off the stress, according to Dr. Giles.

Relaxing activities can help with the anxiety. Those can include yoga or a walk in the park.

Self-reflection can also help, as long as you don't let it add to your stress.

"Sometimes if this person can at least bring into awareness the fact that oh it's this past issue that's making this present issue so bad, they can begin to focus on what to do about both things," Dr. Giles said.

If the stress level become overwhelming, people may develop health problems or unhealthy addictions. Giles said that is when you need to seek help.

Westside Behavioral Care provides a wide range of counseling services. You can learn more by visiting westsidebehavioral.com.