If you've recently lost your job or are struggling to find a new one, your student loans are probably causing you more stress than usual.

The job market is flashing warning signs, with the U.S. economy adding just 22,000 positions in August, which was below expectations , according to a Bureau of Labor Statistics report on Sept. 5. At the same time, the unemployment rate ticked up to 4.3%, its highest level in almost four years .

"The slowdown in job creation might make some recent college graduates and borrowers worried," said higher education expert Mark Kantrowitz.

More than 40 million Americans hold student loans , and the total outstanding debt exceeds $1.6 trillion.

CNBC spoke to experts about to do with your student loans if you're unemployed or unable to find a be

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