Money stress is probably traditionally thought of as affecting men the most. However, new research shows that women actually suffer more from higher money stress rates than their men folk. The truth is that women, especially women who fall into the baby boomer generation, are more worried about money than men.

This could be for many reasons. For example, women are more likely to need to draw from investments to pay for child-related expenses. Women also tend to make less money dollar for dollar than men. Whatever the reasons, women are more likely than men to suffer from money stress. And these financial worries are amplified whenever there is an economic downturn.

So how can women help themselves manage financial stress even in an economic downturn? Here are 5 tips to beating money stress:

1. Don't panic

The global or national economy is vast and complex. It can be overwhelming to see world events occurring, especially when you have no control over them. Do not become obsessed with bad news. Go ahead and read the paper by all means, but then put it down and move on with your day. Instead of stressing about what you cannot impact, focus on the financial areas that are within your control.

2. Control your household expenses

Make sure that your household is doing the best to keep expenses down and put money into savings for emergencies and long-range plans. Work out a weekly budget and stick to it.

3. Get your kids to do their part

Teach your family about money-management so that they do not spend recklessly but understand the need to be frugal. In the long term they will be well prepared to enter the world independently. And if they don't spend everything you are saving, it will also keep your stress levels under control.

4. Consider alternatives

Learn about ways to improve your personal finances in the current economic climate. Believe it or not, even in economic downturns, certain job markets still do well and there are always investment opportunities that make a lot of sense in market downturns. Take time to seek them out.

5. Take care of your health 

When you are stressed out about money, it is easy to let go of your exercise routine or healthy diet. But it will do you and your family no good at all if you fall ill. So make sure you stay focused on staying healthy. Reduce your stress through physical activity, such as walking, and healthy eating. This will improve all areas of your health and even help you to let go of your money worries.

When the economy is in a downward, remember that it is cyclical. At some point, it will improve again. You need to sit tight and make sure you are ready and in good shape for the recovery, when it comes. In the meantime, make sure you are taking as much pleasure from simple things as you can. There's always a lot to be grateful for!

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