We know better, but we just can't seem to stop. Sound familiar?

It does if you have ever struggled with a substance use disorder, overeating, or any other self-destructive behavior that gets out of control and leads to negative life consequences. Many of us reach a point where we know these behaviors are hurting us, but we just can't seem to stop. Human beings have an uncanny ability to use almost any substance or behavior to excess in an attempt to avoid uncomfortable feelings, and money is no exception.

Chances are you are stressed about money, and you're not alone. For the past few years, the American Psychological Association's Stress in America Survey has found that three-quarters of Americans identify money as the # 1 source of stress in their lives. This was true even before the recession. Given the financial health of the average American, this comes as no surprise. Prior to the economic crisis the average American household carried over $10,000 in credit card debt and had a savings rate of -0.5%, the lowest since the Great Depression. With the accessibility of easy credit, no down payments, and interest only mortgages, the average American became a credit junkie. And just like a drug addict who has run out of resources, the average American is hitting a financial bottom.