While some may be struggling in this economy, Judith Orloff has never been busier.

Of course, Orloff isn't necessarily happy about that turn of events. As a psychiatrist, her busy practice is a result of a population that is anxious, depressed and worried about the economy and their jobs. "I'm seeing more people than I have in 20 years," Orloff says. "My practice is booming."

Orloff says this "onslaught of people" represents a population unprepared to handle job loss, financial hits to investments and threats of losing their homes. "They're having their security taken away, and it's rattling them on a deep level," she says.

According to the American Psychological Association annual Stress in America survey, almost half of American workers say they're stressed about their ability to provide for their families' basic needs, and eight out of 10 say the economy is a major stressor.

"For a lot of people who have things in their past like an insecure childhood, all the old patterns are being triggered by this crisis," Orloff says. "People are really worried about what might happen."

That worry is causing a host of physical problems, as well. A recent Adecco USA survey found that one in five Americans report the recession has had a negative impact on their mental health. Insomnia, back and neck pain, headaches and growing irritability and depression have prompted many to seek professional help from people such as Orloff.

Orloff says, however, that those who are anxious or depressed have a number of ways to help themselves, and should look at this crisis as a chance to be grateful for "what is working in your life."

In her new book, "Emotional Freedom: Liberate Yourself From Negative Emotions and Transform Your Life" (Harmony Books, $24.95), Orloff says that those who want strategies to handle the stress being felt today should: