Many Americans are facing the harsh reality of losing their homes to foreclosure.

For most people, their homes are not just a place to live. Homes tie
people to the community and social activities, to the familiar faces of
neighbors, to friends, and to a sense of belonging. Foreclosure brings
with it not only the loss of home but also a mix of emotions.

Just as there are ways to deal with the financial costs of foreclosure,
there are also ways to work through the emotional side of it. Edythe
Harvey, MD, medical director of the Menninger Clinic’s Hope Program,
offers this advice:

1. 
   Acknowledge your feelings. When we withhold our emotions,
   negative pileup occurs. Find someone to talk to or use a creative
   outlet such as writing or drawing to express your feelings.
2. Avoid connecting negative thoughts to your feelings. Instead
   of the notion “I am a bad person for letting this happen,” try focusing
   on more productive thinking, “This is a bad experience, but I am going
   to work hard to remedy the situation.”
3. Live in the moment. While we need to learn from the past and
   plan for the future, regret and anxiety over things we have no control
   over is wasted energy. Take each day as it comes. Apply the lessons you
   have learned to today’s situations.
4. Reassure your family. If you have children, help them
   identify their feelings about moving. Assure them that although you are
   sad to be leaving your home, you are going to work hard to make sure
   your new home will be as nice as you can make it.
5. Ask for help. Whether it is from a financial counselor or a mental health advisor, if you think you are in over your head, seek help.

“People get caught up in not reaching out for support, especially
emotional support. For some reason, it is seen as a sign of weakness.
That’s just not so. There are times when we all need a little help,”
said Dr. Harvey.