Financial uncertainty can be stressful, especially when combined with recent inflation, long-term unemployment, and the economic disruption caused by the pandemic. The experts at Bankrate, a consumer financial services company based in New York City, have created a guide that provides consumers and business leaders with ways to manage financial stress. It includes tips such as prioritizing what you can control, earning extra money, paying essential bills, and more. Here are seven ways that you can manage your financial stress during trying times, according to a recent feature from Bankrate.

1. Prioritize what you can control

You can’t change everything that is causing you stress. Some things are simply out of your control. If you dwell on things you can’t control, it’s likely to cause you even more stress as you get frustrated with not being able to change them. Focus instead on the things that you can control so that you can work to improve your situation.

2. Find ways to earn more money

You can only cut a budget so far, and you’ll want to be careful that your tight budget isn’t a source of additional stress. Another way to ease some financial tension is to take steps to increase your income. It may seem difficult to increase your income in the current economic environment, but it isn’t out of the question.

3. Pay essential bills

If you are worried about being able to pay all your bills, prioritize essential bills first. Sorting through your bills and prioritizing them serves several purposes.

4. Save money (if you can)

Try to stick to a consistent savings plan. If you don’t follow a plan already, try to implement one even if it starts small. Having a savings plan that you follow is one more thing you can control.

5. Track your money-saving progress

You won’t really know if you’re making progress if you don’t track it. Make sure you know where you stand. Tracking your progress lets you know whether the actions you are taking are moving the needle.

6. Talk to your lenders

Debt can be both a financial and mental burden. Before you let debt and the stress it causes overwhelm you, talk to your lenders. “Always remember that lenders are often open to discussing your issues and finding at least a short term solution,” said Anna Barker, founder of LogicalDollar and personal finance expert.

7. Talk to professionals

Consider talking to a financial advisor to help take some of the weight off your shoulders when it comes to things like setting goals, saving money and decreasing debt. “The uncertainty created by COVID-19 has increased financial stress for many people who need help with money matters from someone they can trust,” says Brian Thorp, founder and CEO of Wealthtender.

“Fortunately, most financial coaches and advisors have adapted their practice to serve clients online. While technology has shown its value in a world of social distancing, it can’t replace the human element offered by financial professionals when it comes to the emotional topic of money.”