U.S. government website offers emotional rescue from economy

Stressed out by the economy? The U.S. government is offering an online emotional rescue kit. The "Getting Through Tough Economic Times" guide at www.samhsa.gov/economy/ is meant to help people identify any serious health concerns related to financial worries, develop coping skills and find help.

Of particular importance is helping people see the warning signs of depression, suicidal thinking and other serious mental illnesses. These include:

*Persistent sadness/crying

*Excessive anxiety

*Lack of sleep/constant fatigue

*Excessive irritability/anger

*Increased drinking

*Illicit drug use, including misuse of medications

The site directs people to caregivers and also offers tips on ways to reduce the causes of stress, such as finding a new job and refinancing mortgages.