Binging on junk food, insomnia, irritability, and other stress-related symptoms are a sign that financial worries are causing excessive worry among American women. According to a survey just released by the American Psychological Association (APA) 83% percent of women are stressed about money, especially about whether they will be able to provide for their family's basic needs.

"Taking one small action every day can make you feel better, reduce your worries about money, and make significant improvements in your finances" says independent financial expert Galia Gichon. Gichon is author of the My Money Matters Kit (Plain White Press, Distributed by Consortium, publication 2008, $24.95). Gichon says there is an emotional connection to money and sees it firsthand in her work with individual clients. "Women need to combine their financial knowledge with a good dose of inspiration and positive motivation to really have a healthy relationship with money" says Gichon, which is why she designed the My Money Matters kit. Each kit is a personal financial management tool that helps women improve their money savvy, while reducing their stress at the same time.

In an interview last week, Gichon recommended the following things that women should do right now to reduce their stress and cut down on their expenses:

• Space out your luxuries. If you are getting a manicure every week, get one every other week. At the same time, say no to the extras.
• Call your credit card company and ask for a lower rate – tonight.
• Find a debt pay-down buddy: Someone who will hold you accountable, want to pay down their debt too, and who will motivate you to make it a priority.
• Consolidate and streamline your investments to as few places as possible. With fewer statements, you will feel more in control of your money.

If you'd like more information visit the kit website: www.mymoneykit.com