When Every Month is a Struggle: A Simple Guide for Everyday People
If your credit cards or other unsecured debts are piling up, you’re not alone. Many good, hard-working people feel stuck. This guide explains common struggles in clear, simple language and offers small steps you can take today.
First, what is “unsecured debt”?
Unsecured debt is money you owe that is not tied to a car or a house.
Common examples:
Credit cards
Personal loans
Medical bills
Store cards
Payday loans
Because there’s no property backing it, lenders charge higher interest to make up for the risk.
Why it gets hard so fast
Interest grows every day.
If you carry a balance, the bank adds interest. Next month you pay interest on the old balance plus last month’s interest. This is called compound interest. It’s why balances can rise even when you make payments.
Minimum payments are tiny for a reason.
They keep your account current, but they often barely touch the principal (the amount you borrowed). That means you can pay for years and still owe a lot.
Fees add up.
Late fees, over-limit fees, and penalty APRs (higher interest if you’re late) can make a tough spot tougher.
Common struggles people face
1) The “minimum payment” trap
You pay on time, but the balance doesn’t drop much.
A surprise bill or emergency wipes out your progress.
How it feels: “I’m paying and paying, but nothing is changing.”
2) Juggling bills and due dates
Three or more cards? It’s easy to miss a due date.
One late payment can raise your interest rate.
How it feels: “I can’t keep track anymore.”
3) Running out of cash between paychecks
Groceries, gas, rent, kids—everything costs more now.
You put everyday items on a card just to get by.
How it feels: “I’m using debt to live, not just for extras.”
4) Stress and sleepless nights
Money worries can cause headaches, stomach aches, and low energy.
It can strain relationships and make family time tense.
How it feels: “My mind won’t turn off.”
5) Credit score drops
High balances and late payments can lower your score.
A lower score makes future loans more expensive.
How it feels: “I’m stuck paying more because I paid more.”
6) Calls, letters, and collection pressure
If you fall behind, you may get frequent calls or letters.
It can feel embarrassing or scary, even if you’re trying your best.
How it feels: “I dread answering my phone.”
7) No room for goals
Saving for a home, car, school, or retirement gets pushed back.
You feel like you can’t move forward.
How it feels: “My future is on hold.”
Signs your debt is becoming unmanageable
You pay only the minimum on most cards
Your card balances go up month after month
You use new credit to cover old credit
You skip essentials (food, meds) to make payments
You hide bills or money stress from loved ones
You’ve thought, “There’s no way out”
If you checked two or more, it’s time to make a plan.
Helpful options to explore
Debt resolution/settlement: Learn the about the process, the benefits and timelines. Call TrueHelp at 877-335-9633 or email us at admin@truehelpus.org
Debt management plan (nonprofit credit counseling): One monthly payment, possibly lower interest. Your accounts may be closed while you repay.
Personal loan to consolidate: One fixed payment, often at a lower rate than cards—if your credit qualifies.