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A financial downturn can wreak havoc on your emotional life as well as your portfolio. Educate yourself to help you overcome this downturn in your life so that you can prepare for recovery. Survivors of all age ranges say these are the best guides -- check them out to find out your age-appropriate options:

• RetirementRevised: How to Deal with a Bear Market Near Retirement Age
• Fortune Magazine: College Fund Blues
• Oprah.com: Saving For Retirement During Good Times and Bad

Though some individual stocks won’t necessarily go back up, the stock market as a whole eventually will. Once you reassess your goals and put a solid investment plan together, you can focus on other priorities and wait patiently until the market goes upwards again: MSN Money: How to Thrive When This Bear Dies.

While some people used the stock market as a retirement or college fund, others depended on the assets they had there as a regular spending account. If you based your expenses on your stock market returns, you'll now have to rethink your entire financial life. Start by making a family budget that is based on your steady income instead of your investment returns. There are also professionals you can turn to for support and help.

Stockbrokers are people who make the market trades for you. Some brokers give personalized service, while others serve more as a clearinghouse that wait for your contact. The type of stockbroker or brokerage firm you need depends on your comfort level.

• MSN Money: How to Choose the Right Brokerage for You
• About.com: Stocks - Finding a Broker

Financial planners work with you to put together a plan for your entire financial future. They help with all aspects of your financial life, including tax planning, investing and budgeting.

• U.S. Securities & Exchange Commission: Financial Planners
• About.com: Financial Planning - Finding a Financial Advisor

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