The economic downturn is causing quite a financial turmoil for most people. Many who have been depending on credit cards for so long now will suddenly realise that they are heavily in debt with no way out; that is except for bankruptcy.

Finding debt relief is not easy. In fact, many debt-ridden people will feel under heavy pressure with little or no hope of ever clearing it. The worse part is that they are also being hounded by their creditors to pay up. So, it would seem as if bankruptcy is the only way out.

Well, that's not true. There is a way out for those heavily in debt, even those in bad credit debt. There are Christian debt relief programs for the devout Christians and there are hundreds, if not thousands, of debt management programs for everyone.

So, here are ten simple steps to get out of debt:

1. Sit down and calculate your full debt amount. No more hiding. You must first admit that you have a serious problem AND get the right figure before you can solve it!

2. If you are really bad with figures, consult a professional. I know you will think that you can't afford it but that's rubbish. If you approach any debt consolidation companies, they will gladly provide you with financial advisors free of charge!

3. Cut your credit cards. ALL of it. No exceptions. They got you in trouble in the first place so it is time you get rid of the root of your problem. With credit cards out of the way, you will be less inclined to splurge on unimportant things.

4. Set a budget and follow it strictly. Sounds difficult? Not if you want to stay out of bankruptcy! Of course the budget will have to be reasonable and to include paying up your creditors. So, let's say you earn $2,500 each month and you have a huge accumulated (and growing) debt of $15,000. The first thing to do is to pay your creditors first, e.g. credit card, mortgages, hire purchase. Assuming, you need $1,500 to pay them, you still have $1,000 left. Now, set a weekly budget and cut out the unnecessary stuffs. Put aside money for fuel and food. Anything else that won't kill you if you don't have it (or cause you to lose your house / job), you do not need it.

5. Do not only pay the minimum amount when paying your creditors. Always pay extra so that you could reduce the principal amount faster.

6. No more shopping trips. The only reason you go to the store is to get food and essential items.

7. Call up your creditors and ask for reduction in interest or some leniency. If they are not interested, then look for companies that will willingly let you transfer your debt to them and they will give you a lower rate.

8. Check out debt relief programs and debt consolidation companies and consider consolidating all of your debts for easier monthly payments.

9. Discipline. No binge buying. No sneaking out for shopping trips and definitely no buying stuffs you do not need at all.

10. Get your partner (if married) to pitch in and help you to manage your debt. If single, get a 'debt' buddy as in a close friend who is also in debt and is searching for a way out. You can do it together!

These are not surefire ways to get out of debt but just personal lifestyle changes to manage your debt problem so that you will eventually lead a debt free life.