PHOENIX -- With the current crisis on Wall Street, many Americans are squeezed for cash, and the average family owes creditors $8,000, according to CardWeb.com.

Crystal Magallanes, a struggling parent in the Valley, said getting out of debt is difficult.

"I feel like we get done paying one bill, (and) others pop up left and right," she said.

According to the nonprofit group Consumer Credit Counseling, decreasing debt boils down to two simple concepts: increasing income and decreasing expenses.

Jeanine Lipka of Consumer Credit Counseling suggested keeping necessary expenses at the top of the priority list, and cutting out small expenses, such as pay-per-view movies on TV and restaurant lunches.

"It's nice to have, but is it necessary?" she said. "No."

She also said consumers should call their credit card companies and explain any special circumstances.

The more communication people can have with their creditors, the more apt the creditors are to work with people, Lipka said. Some companies may even allow people to join a temporary hardship program, where the creditor may reduce interest rates or the payment amount.

Additionally, Lipka said people should look for ways to bring in more money. She recommended renting an empty room to offset the mortgage payment or offering baby-sitting services.

"It's the little things that add up," Lipka said.