Whenever you turn on the TV these days, there is bad news about the economy -companies going out of business, people losing jobs, home values decreasing. The country is going through tough financial times, which is producing much fear in the hearts and minds of many people around the world.

So how do you stay financially healthy in the midst of these economic times? Get back to the basics.

1. Determine how much money is coming in. Yes, it is very basic, but the first step to financial health is knowing exactly how much money you are making each month. Look at your paycheck each week and know how much is actual take-home pay after taxes, social security, and other deductions. Begin to document this amount, either in a basic excel spreadsheet, or in a software system, such as Quicken or Money.

2. Document your monthly expenditures. Look at your rent or mortgage payment, utility bills, credit cards statements, and ATM withdrawals and begin writing down your expenses for each month. Document everything you are spending money on - eating out, groceries, gas, and girl's nights out.

3. Notice where you are spending extra money. Do you go shopping when you are stressed out, and have a lot of shoes as a result? Do you go out to eat every night because you don't know how to cook? Do you have a caramel macchiato every day as an afternoon pick-me-up? As you begin to document your expenses, your awareness regarding where you are spending your money will begin to grow.

4. Begin to cut expenses in areas that you can. Now that you know where you are spending your money, notice the little (or big, depending on your financial situation) changes that you can begin to take today to cut spending. Can you cut coupons to save on grocery bills? Can you look for sales at the malls when you are in need of a new pair of jeans? These days, retailers are looking to make money in any way they can. If you are going to buy something anyway, look for deals at local retailers or online and find frugal alternatives. Begin cutting expenses in one or two places today.

5. Use the extra savings to either pay down debt or save. If you have debt - student loans, credit card payments, car payments - begin to pay down the debts with the highest interest rates first. With the exception of your mortgage payment (if you have one), try to pay off all other debts. Once they are paid off, start saving. Suze Orman says to keep a minimum of eight months' worth of savings for emergencies. Begin saving as much as you can today.

6. Invest wisely. These days, with the market the way it is, investing in the stock market, your 401K or real estate may seem scary. But if you have the savings cushion described above and can begin investing in your first home, right now might be the time to find a good deal. Or, if you already have a home, you may be able to find stocks or mutual funds, which are good long-term investments. Determine your financial goals and search for a good financial advisor who can get you started in investing your money today.

Financial concerns are a huge stress-inducer. If you are worried about your money today, it could be affecting your health, which could lead to more financial concerns in the future, with doctors' bills and medication. Begin to take control of your finances today by taking the steps described above. Financial health is a process and can be done step by step. Change one habit today and bring financial health to your and your family's life.