Debtor's Anonymous: Get out of debt!

With the housing crisis, credit crunch, and slowing economy threatening the financial lives of Americans just getting by, a lot of people are looking for solutions to their debt.

Debt consolidation programs and the like offer hope to some but for those looking for a long-term solution to financial problems, something more is needed: a focus on changing the behaviors that led to financial woes in the first place.

Founded by participants in Alcoholic's Anonymous, Debtor's Anonymous offers a 12-step program and support group for people struggling with debt. Debtors Anonymous members are encouraged to keep track of every dime that they owe, spend and earn, based on a belief that many people who have problems with debt suffer from "terminal vagueness" and "compulsive inattentiveness" to their financial lives.

For more, check out the website and the group's book, Currency of Hope. If you think you may have a problem, try this 15 question quiz, and visit this page to find regional sites to locate a meeting in your areas. With over 500 meetings in the United States and 12 other countries, you shouldn't have to travel too far to find help.