Seven sure signs that your debt is becoming unmanageable

Most of us use credit at some point — for big life events, emergencies, or just to get by when times are tough. But sometimes, it creeps up on us. A credit card here, a loan there, and before you know it, it feels like your debt’s calling the shots.

If you’re not sure whether your debt’s still under control, here are seven signs it might be time to take action. Some are subtle – others less so. But they’re all worth paying attention to.

1. You're using credit for essentials

If you're putting your weekly shop or your energy bill on a credit card - not because it’s convenient, but because you genuinely can’t afford it - that’s a red flag.

You're not alone. According to the Joseph Rowntree Foundation, 5.7 million low-income households in the UK are going without essentials like food, heating or toiletries. And one in six are in arrears on household bills.

It’s a sign that your income isn't stretching far enough, and debt is picking up the slack.

2. You're only making the minimum repayments

Paying the minimum on a credit card might feel like you're keeping things ticking over, but in reality, you could end up paying back double or even triple the original amount once interest piles on.

For example, if you owe £5,000 on a credit card with a 19.9% APR and only pay the minimum each month, it could take you over 18 years to clear it - and cost more than £11,000 in total. That’s a lot of extra cash going to the bank instead of back in your pocket.

There are lots of different strategies when it comes to paying off credit card debt. But if it has become unmanageable, you should get some debt help.

3. You don’t know how much you owe anymore

If you’re avoiding your bank app, not opening letters, or just feeling like it’s all too much, that’s another sign things are getting serious.

It’s easy to lose track when you’ve got a few credit cards, an overdraft, maybe a buy now pay later (BNPL) account or two. But burying your head in the sand won’t help. In fact, it usually makes things worse.

4. You're borrowing to pay off borrowing

Juggling debts by taking out new credit to pay off old ones? That’s known as “robbing Peter to pay Paul” and it's a dangerous cycle.

It might feel like a short-term fix, but it often leads to even higher interest rates and more stress. If you're refinancing or balance transferring just to stay afloat, it's time to stop and get support.

5. You're behind on bills or getting chased for payments

Missed a few payments? Getting letters from creditors or debt collectors? Maybe even threats of

Around 6.1 million households were in arrears on their gas, electricity, or water bills last year. Being behind isn’t uncommon, but if it becomes the norm, it’s a sign your finances are stretched too thin.

6. You're skipping meals or cutting back on essentials

Nobody should have to choose between heating and eating, but sadly, it’s becoming more common. The Trussell Trust gave out over 3.1 million food parcels in the UK last year - the highest number ever. While we referred more than 13,000 people to help because their cupboards were bare.

If you’re regularly skipping meals or going without essentials just to keep up with debt payments, it’s time to reach out. Your health and wellbeing come first.

7. It's affecting your sleep, your mood or your relationships

Debt doesn’t just affect your bank balance. It takes a toll on your mental health too. If you're feeling anxious, ashamed, or even arguing more with your partner about money, that’s just as valid a warning sign.

According to Mind, people in problem debt are more than three times as likely to experience mental health problems. And our own survey revealed that 80% of customers felt less stress after getting debt support, with 74% saying that ‘a weight had been lifted.’

Debt isn’t just about pounds and pence. It's also about peace of mind.

What to do if you're worried about your debt

If any of this feels familiar, don’t panic, but also don’t ignore it. The sooner you ask for help, the more options you’ll have.

We can find the right solution for you. Whether it’s a simple budget plan or a full debt solution like a Debt management plan (DMP), a debt relief order (DRO) or an individual voluntary arrangement (IVA), we’ll talk you through your options with no judgement.