Economic Stress Falls in March

New York, NY, May 5, 2011 -- The nation's economic stress is at its lowest point this year, according to the Associated Press' monthly economic stress survey.

Lower unemployment, bankruptcies and foreclosures made conditions more upbeat, AP reported.

More than 85% of the nation's 3,141 counties and every state but two -- Louisiana and South Dakota -- enjoyed better conditions in March than in February, the AP's index showed.

Increasing manufacturing activity has helped in the Midwest over the past 12 months -- more than in any other region.