AUGUSTA, Ga. - The Dow is down, unemployment rates are up, and homes are being foreclosed. The tough economy is not only affecting people’s pockets but also how they’re feeling.

“It makes me feel bad because we need help but there’s no help to be found,” said Dorothy Higgins, Augustan.

She and her neighbors are feeling the pressure.

“The whole population is suffering stress right now,” said Dr. Erick Messias, MCGHealth Psychiatrist.

He says there are ways to handle that stress and halt the onset of depression. The biggest factor is social interaction and realizing you are not alone.

“This is the moment when we need to come together and help and understand each other that’s what’s going to help keep people from going to the edge. Social support, looking for people you trust and trying to find outlets for your anxiety,” said Messias.

Messias suggests exercising and focusing on your hobbies. There is another factor many say helps them keep their spirits up.

“Every time I feel worried I just remind myself there’s someone greater than me who’s in charge of all this,” said Larry Ford.

Higgins agrees. “I’m not too much worried about it because God is in control.”

“I always go to the source, the main source and that’s God,” another Augusta woman, Claudia Dixon, said.

Dr. Messias says it is no surprise that people turn to faith. He says it is another example of social support and it helps instill trust.

“The moment when you don’t trust politicians, you don’t trust CEOs, and you don’t trust the authorities you trust your priest or your spiritual counselor,” he said.

For some people it is more than mild anxiety or sadness. Certain symptoms should signal it may be the time to seek professional help.

Symptoms like not being able to enjoy activities you usually do. Experiencing a change in sleep patterns can be another symptom. Also a change in appetite and becoming unusually irritable or upset can signal it is time for professional help.

“People get on the edge and things that usually don’t get to you can start getting to you and that’s when things start getting rally problematic,” said Messias.

But for Mitchell Vizzari it’s the one day at a time approach that’s keeping his head above water.

“You gotta take every day as it comes and look at the bright side, it’ll get better…I hope.”

Since the economy is so bad professional help for stress or anxiety may not be an expense you can afford. But there’s some good news. There are several places in Augusta that offer affordable help and support.

American Works offers affordable counseling. Fees are adjusted on a sliding scale. You can reach the center at (706) 736-8170.

Also, Messias suggest turning to local churches which often provide free counseling to the community.

He says if feelings of depression ever turn to suicidal thoughts people should immediately go to the emergency room.