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Losing your 401k or having to cash one in can certainly be a financial challenge and a emotional burden. Some people feel overwhelmed by the stress of dealing with a damaged 401k. It's important to not to let these stresses run your life. Educating yourself on the reality of 401Ks and how to wisely manage them can help you and your loved ones while you are rebuilding your nest egg.

Here are some sources and guides that can help you rebuild and cope with losing your 401k:

• The Smartest 401k Book You'll Ever Read: Maximize Your Retirement Savings...the Smart Way! by Daniel R. Solin
• 401Ks For Dummies by Ted Benna and Brenda Watson Newmann.
• Your Complete Retirement Planning Road Map: A Comprehensive Action Plan for Securing IRAs, 401(k)s, and Other Retirement Plans for Yourself and Your Family by Ed Slott.

As your 401k starts to recover, assess and share with others how you feel emotionally, mentally and financially. Recovering from a 401K crisis takes time, but as soon as you start to approach the problem realistically and optimistically, you'll begin to see ways you can move forward.

Make sure you have an investment strategy for your 401k that keeps it secure in both good and bad times.Kiplinger.com: Protect Your 401K in Turbulent Times

Every cent counts, so make sure you are not paying too much in administrative fees and expenses that can eat away at your investment returns.

Some employers are stopping their 401k matches for employees. Don't panic, just wise up on your investment strategy.

If your company has shut down or filed for bankruptcy, you do have options for recovering your 401k money: 401k Help Center: If a Company You Work for Goes Bankrupt, What Happens to Your 401k?

If you need money from your 401k before you are officially allowed to take withdrawals, determine whether it's the best move for you because the government does put steep penalties for 401k loans if they're not taken for the right reasons. Also, If your 401K is losing money, don’t give up on it. Wise investing takes time to reap the rewards.

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