BLOOMINGTON - Stress is on the increase in Central Illinois, in part because of job uncertainty and the economic crisis. But there are steps people can take to reduce stress.

Here are some ideas from health and financial professionals:

Curtail expenses

"You can't control what is happening on Wall Street," said Peggi Hattaway, clinical manager with Chestnut Counseling & Family Services. "But you can control how much you spend."

People experiencing financial difficulties should curtail expenses by determining what they need versus what they want.

"It may be the first time some families have had to budget," she said. Planning expenses will have long-term benefits.

Control the news

You need to be informed about what's happening on Wall Street and elsewhere. But checking your stocks online several times a day and keeping the 24-hour television news station on isn't necessary and adds to your feelings of uncertainty, Hattaway said.

"Be informed about what's going on but don't obsess on it," she said. "Turn off the TV and computer and put down the paper and focus on what you can control."

Meet with a financial planner

People concerned about their investments and loans should meet with a financial planner for advice. For example, Diane Ryon with American Capital Equities is advising some people to add to their 401ks.

"This is the best time to be buying," she said. "This is a garage sale."

Be organized

Some stress results from disorganization in one or more aspects of a person's life. Determine where you need to be more organized and work at it, getting help as needed.

"I deal with stress by working hard," said Ryon, a self-described Type A personality. But Ryon admitted that she is able to work efficiently because she has a good staff and because her husband, Roger, a retiree from State Farm Insurance Cos., cooks dinner.

Relax

Determine what relaxes you and do it as needed. Everyone is different. Ryon relaxes by reading murder mysteries and working on crossword and jigsaw puzzles.

Ronald Bartlett, a charge nurse in the emergency department at BroMenn Regional Medical Center, said sitting in a quiet room and listening to music or going for walks works to de-stress and recharge some people.

Dave Hall, a Bloomington emergency medical technician and firefighter, said sometimes a nap is the best thing.

"Sometimes you need to stop life and hit the reset button," Hall said.

Get enough sleep

A good night's rest refuels the body, Hattaway said. A well-rested body helps us to deal with whatever new days brings.

Exercise

Exercise and physical activity is a proven stress-buster. Hall rakes leaves and cuts grass when he's stressed. Other people may benefit from joining a fitness center. Bartlett likes to play tennis.

"With exercise, you're killing two birds with one stone: you're helping your body and helping to take your mind off your problem," Bartlett said.

Eat healthy

Some people respond to stress by eating poorly. Instead, eat healthy foods that fuel your body and mind, which in turn fuels your spirit.

"If you're not taking care of your physical self, you're not taking care of your emotional self," Hattaway said.

Spend time with family

Spending time with your spouse and children is a great way to be reminded about what's important.

Volunteer

Everyone is invigorated by helping someone less fortunate. Volunteering also gets people involved with others in the community and helps older adults keep their skills polished. But you need to find volunteer work that you enjoy so it reduces your stress rather than adds to it.

Ask someone to listen

When you really need to vent, ask a trusted family member or friend to listen without being judgmental. If you need more sustained help, speak with a professional counselor. PATH or your company's employee assistance program may be able to point you in the right direction.

"Nobody has to go it alone," Bartlett said.