Some people are nervous about their financial future, as a jittery stock market works to recover from last week’s record-setting losses.

But it’s only one of many things people in Douglas County are worried about, said Marcia Epstein, director of Headquarters Counseling Service, 211 E. Eighth St.

“We really have been hearing for quite a long time about people having additional stress, additional fears, even more depression because of the financial situation,” she said.

High gas prices, the future of the job market, being able to afford healthcare, the shaky economy and presidential campaign fears are among the top concerns of people counseled by Headquarters, said Epstein.

“A lot of people feel a lot of fear, a lot of worry, a lot of stress,” she said.

Plus, Epstein said those fears will be compounded as some people begin to figure out how to pay for their winter utility bills.

The community can play a role in helping to ease the stress, Epstein said. For those who can afford it, she said a donation to the United Way or a charitable organization in the area can go a long way in relieving the fears being felt by others throughout Douglas County.

“It’s a very caring community, but there are also some people who probably don’t realize that they could do something that might make a big difference,” she said.

In some cases, money problems can lead people to commit suicide. If you need help, Epstein said help is available by calling Headquarters at 841-2345.