A simple fact is that more and more Americans are being overwhelmed by debt. Since the bankruptcy laws have changed, it is not as easy to discharge debts anymore.

Some people find themselves in financial trouble because of a job loss, medical bills or simply over spending and not managing their money properly. Whatever your reason is for being in debt, rest assured there are ways to consolidate your debt and find relief.

Always remember that debt doesn't disappear overnight. It can only disappear completely when it is paid off.

While debt relief isn't always immediate, there are some ways to start the process. Contact your creditors and explain your situation. Sometimes, they may be able to assist you and lower your interest rates or payments or, they can set up a payment plan that will help you without hurting your credit.

You can also contact a credit counseling service. They can be of great help to you for a low fee or no fee at all. Sometimes they might simply be able to help you better organize your budget and spending for some debt consolidation or relief, or they may be able to help you contact your creditors and work something out with them.

Talk to your bank. If you have equity in your home and are getting a steady income, you may want to consider getting a home equity loan to provide some debt consolidation. However, this will mean having another large monthly payment and of course, your house is at stake if you would default on either mortgage payment.

Part-time jobs or any way of finding an additional income can help to provide debt relief. Some families have spouses who work several jobs just to put food on the table and assist in debt relief. It may not be a permanent situation, just temporary until you get enough of your debt paid off to live comfortably again.

And no matter what, cut up most of your credit cards. The less debt you continue to accrue, the less debt relief you will be needing.