{"id":56137,"date":"2026-03-24T10:30:53","date_gmt":"2026-03-24T14:30:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/?p=56137"},"modified":"2026-03-24T03:38:00","modified_gmt":"2026-03-24T07:38:00","slug":"14-habits-that-leave-american-drowning-in-debt","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/14-habits-that-leave-american-drowning-in-debt\/","title":{"rendered":"14 American Spending Habits That Leave Them Drowning in Debt"},"content":{"rendered":"<style>img#mv-trellis-img-1::before{padding-top:56.25%; }img#mv-trellis-img-1{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-2::before{padding-top:56.25%; }img#mv-trellis-img-2{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-3::before{padding-top:56.25%; }img#mv-trellis-img-3{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-4::before{padding-top:56.25%; }img#mv-trellis-img-4{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-5::before{padding-top:56.25%; }img#mv-trellis-img-5{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-6::before{padding-top:56.25%; }img#mv-trellis-img-6{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-7::before{padding-top:56.25%; }img#mv-trellis-img-7{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-8::before{padding-top:56.25%; }img#mv-trellis-img-8{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-9::before{padding-top:56.25%; }img#mv-trellis-img-9{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-10::before{padding-top:56.25%; }img#mv-trellis-img-10{display:block;}img#mv-trellis-img-11::before{padding-top:56.25%; }img#mv-trellis-img-11{display:block;}<\/style><p>Accruing mountains of debt is a common problem among Americans. Data reveals the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.fool.com\/the-ascent\/research\/average-household-debt\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">typical<\/a> American household carries over $103,000 in debt, including mortgages, credit cards (we&rsquo;re looking at you, holiday shopping), and car loans. This can be a source of stress as individuals or families try to figure out how to get out of devastating debt. It can leave people feeling hopeless without an attainable way out.<\/p>\n<p>We may not realize how much our cultural values and habits impact our money behaviors, with an underlying push to always want and consume more.<\/p>\n<p>While various factors contribute to this staggering debt average, certain culturally acceptable habits have also contributed to America&rsquo;s drowning in debt.<\/p>\n<h2>1. Equating Splurges with Happiness<\/h2>\n<div style=\"width: 1034px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newinterestingfacts.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Untitled-design-2024-03-25T201032.527-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"happy woman shopping on the street fall colors\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"eager\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newinterestingfacts.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Untitled-design-2024-03-25T201032.527-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"happy woman shopping on the street fall colors\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" class=\"eager-load\" data-no-svg=\"1\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><p class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image Credit: Deposit Photos.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Many Americans develop the mindset that they deserve &ldquo;nice things&rdquo; and to be happy. While this may be true, it shouldn&rsquo;t be to the detriment of their savings accounts. Most of us can have nice things without splurging unnecessarily on high-ticket items we know we can&rsquo;t afford. Plus, no item or price tag will truly lead to happiness.<\/p>\n<h2>2. Wasting Money Regularly<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_49666\" style=\"width: 1290px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-49666\" class=\"size-full wp-image-49666\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2671761591.jpg\" alt=\"A young woman shops in a grocery store, holding a bag of groceries, promoting eco-friendly and sustainable shopping practices while browsing products in a brightly lit supermarket.\" width=\"1280\" height=\"720\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2671761591.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2671761591-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2671761591-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2671761591-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2671761591-728x410.jpg 728w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2671761591-480x270.jpg 480w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2671761591-320x180.jpg 320w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2671761591-960x540.jpg 960w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2671761591-1080x608.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-49666\" class=\"size-full wp-image-49666 lazyload\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2671761591.jpg\" alt=\"A young woman shops in a grocery store, holding a bag of groceries, promoting eco-friendly and sustainable shopping practices while browsing products in a brightly lit supermarket.\" width=\"1280\" height=\"720\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2671761591.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2671761591-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2671761591-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2671761591-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2671761591-728x410.jpg 728w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2671761591-480x270.jpg 480w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2671761591-320x180.jpg 320w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2671761591-960x540.jpg 960w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2671761591-1080x608.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2671761591.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-1\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><p id=\"caption-attachment-49666\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image Credit: Shutterstock.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Somehow, many people get stuck in wasteful spending habits. Whether it&rsquo;s having too many subscriptions (for TV shows, meals, entertainment, etc.) or buying more than needed for weekly groceries (think impulse buys on snacks, junk food, fruit, etc.) can quickly balloon into spending well beyond our means.<\/p>\n<h2>3. Debt is Worth it for a Dream Home<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_50961\" style=\"width: 1290px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-50961\" class=\"size-full wp-image-50961\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2571111263.jpg\" alt=\"Happy real estate agent woman showing house for sale to young couple of customers, buyers, standing on yard, pointing at exterior, speaking, smiling. Renters meeting with realtor for viewing\" width=\"1280\" height=\"720\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2571111263.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2571111263-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2571111263-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2571111263-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2571111263-728x410.jpg 728w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2571111263-480x270.jpg 480w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2571111263-320x180.jpg 320w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2571111263-960x540.jpg 960w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2571111263-1080x608.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-50961\" class=\"size-full wp-image-50961 lazyload\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2571111263.jpg\" alt=\"Happy real estate agent woman showing house for sale to young couple of customers, buyers, standing on yard, pointing at exterior, speaking, smiling. Renters meeting with realtor for viewing\" width=\"1280\" height=\"720\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2571111263.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2571111263-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2571111263-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2571111263-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2571111263-728x410.jpg 728w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2571111263-480x270.jpg 480w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2571111263-320x180.jpg 320w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2571111263-960x540.jpg 960w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2571111263-1080x608.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2571111263.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-2\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><p id=\"caption-attachment-50961\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image Credit: Shutterstock.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Unfortunately, many people will always try to take out the maximum amount of mortgage that they are approved for, often stretching themselves thin in order to buy their &ldquo;dream home.&rdquo; This mindset is deeply rooted in the American dream of homeownership, but it also contributes heavily to debt because people tend to underestimate the full cost of owning a home (including taxes, insurance, and maintenance).<\/p>\n<p>Additionally, many individuals don&rsquo;t consider the potential risks of being tied down to a mortgage, such as an inability to move for better job opportunities or being forced to sell at a loss due to market fluctuations.<\/p>\n<h2>4. Must Have a New Car<\/h2>\n<div style=\"width: 1610px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newinterestingfacts.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Purchasing-Car.jpg\" alt=\"Purchasing Car\" width=\"1600\" height=\"900\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newinterestingfacts.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/Purchasing-Car.jpg\" alt=\"Purchasing Car\" width=\"1600\" height=\"900\" class=\" lazyload\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><p class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image Credit: Deposit Photos.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>The idea of constantly needing to have the newest and best possessions has been ingrained in our culture for decades. Nowhere is this more evident than in the car industry. Every year, new car models are released with updated features and designs, enticing consumers to upgrade their vehicles.<\/p>\n<p>With the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lendingtree.com\/auto\/debt-statistics\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">average<\/a> car payment at over $700 per month, it&rsquo;s clear that many Americans have fallen prey to this cultural norm. While a car may be a necessary expense for some, constantly upgrading to the newest model or taking out high-interest loans in order to afford an expensive car (rather than buying something affordable in cash) can quickly lead to overwhelming debt.<\/p>\n<h2>5. Getting a Degree without a Career Plan<\/h2>\n<div style=\"width: 1610px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newinterestingfacts.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/A-group-of-graduates-celebrating.jpg\" alt=\"A group of graduates celebrating\" width=\"1600\" height=\"900\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.newinterestingfacts.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/02\/A-group-of-graduates-celebrating.jpg\" alt=\"A group of graduates celebrating\" width=\"1600\" height=\"900\" class=\" lazyload\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><p class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image Credit: Deposit Photos.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Getting a degree without a clear career plan is another culturally acceptable habit that is contributing to America&rsquo;s debt crisis. The pressure to attend college and obtain a degree has been ingrained in our society, leading many individuals to take on student loans without fully considering the potential cost and return on investment.<\/p>\n<p>As a result, many graduates are left with hefty student loan debt and struggle to find employment in their field of study. All for the sake of getting a degree from a prestigious school or fulfilling societal expectations.<\/p>\n<h2>6. Living Beyond Means with Credit Cards<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_47433\" style=\"width: 1290px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-47433\" class=\"size-full wp-image-47433\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2389094767.jpg\" alt=\"Happy couple paying the bill of the coffee shop using a contactless creditcard payment. Young adult customer woman doing a purchase on a restaurant to the cashier with a debit card. People spending\" width=\"1280\" height=\"720\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2389094767.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2389094767-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2389094767-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2389094767-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2389094767-728x410.jpg 728w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2389094767-480x270.jpg 480w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2389094767-320x180.jpg 320w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2389094767-960x540.jpg 960w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2389094767-1080x608.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-47433\" class=\"size-full wp-image-47433 lazyload\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2389094767.jpg\" alt=\"Happy couple paying the bill of the coffee shop using a contactless creditcard payment. Young adult customer woman doing a purchase on a restaurant to the cashier with a debit card. People spending\" width=\"1280\" height=\"720\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2389094767.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2389094767-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2389094767-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2389094767-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2389094767-728x410.jpg 728w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2389094767-480x270.jpg 480w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2389094767-320x180.jpg 320w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2389094767-960x540.jpg 960w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2389094767-1080x608.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2389094767.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-3\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><p id=\"caption-attachment-47433\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image Credit: Shutterstock.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Credit cards are often seen as a convenient way to make purchases, but it&rsquo;s all too easy to fall into the trap of using them for everyday expenses without considering the long-term consequences. The average American carries over $6,000 in credit card debt, and with high-interest rates, this can quickly become a financial burden.<\/p>\n<p>Living beyond one&rsquo;s means and relying on credit cards to cover expenses is a culturally acceptable habit that has contributed significantly to the debt crisis in America.<\/p>\n<h2>7. Consumerism and &ldquo;Retail Therapy.&rdquo;<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_49742\" style=\"width: 1290px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-49742\" class=\"size-full wp-image-49742\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2623116663.jpg\" alt=\"Buying new smart phone at tech store. Looking for a new peace of tech gadget.\" width=\"1280\" height=\"720\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2623116663.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2623116663-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2623116663-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2623116663-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2623116663-728x410.jpg 728w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2623116663-480x270.jpg 480w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2623116663-320x180.jpg 320w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2623116663-960x540.jpg 960w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2623116663-1080x608.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-49742\" class=\"size-full wp-image-49742 lazyload\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2623116663.jpg\" alt=\"Buying new smart phone at tech store. Looking for a new peace of tech gadget.\" width=\"1280\" height=\"720\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2623116663.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2623116663-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2623116663-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2623116663-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2623116663-728x410.jpg 728w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2623116663-480x270.jpg 480w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2623116663-320x180.jpg 320w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2623116663-960x540.jpg 960w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2623116663-1080x608.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2623116663.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-4\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><p id=\"caption-attachment-49742\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image Credit: Shutterstock.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>In today&rsquo;s society, there is immense pressure to keep up with the latest trends constantly and have the latest gadgets, leading to a culture of consumerism. Many people turn to shopping as a form of stress relief or &ldquo;retail therapy&rdquo;, often without considering how these purchases will affect their finances in the long run.<\/p>\n<p>This constant need for material possessions can quickly lead to overspending and accumulating unnecessary debt. Furthermore, easy access to credit cards and online shopping has made it easier than ever to make impulsive purchases without fully considering the financial ramifications.<\/p>\n<h2>8. Brand Obsession and Social Status<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_47287\" style=\"width: 1290px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-47287\" class=\"size-full wp-image-47287\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2397890011.jpg\" alt=\"Fashion woman customer looking on peach color shirt in store. Buying clothes using fitting concept while choosing, professional stylist creating trendy look\" width=\"1280\" height=\"720\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2397890011.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2397890011-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2397890011-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2397890011-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2397890011-728x410.jpg 728w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2397890011-480x270.jpg 480w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2397890011-320x180.jpg 320w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2397890011-960x540.jpg 960w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2397890011-1080x608.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-47287\" class=\"size-full wp-image-47287 lazyload\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2397890011.jpg\" alt=\"Fashion woman customer looking on peach color shirt in store. Buying clothes using fitting concept while choosing, professional stylist creating trendy look\" width=\"1280\" height=\"720\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2397890011.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2397890011-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2397890011-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2397890011-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2397890011-728x410.jpg 728w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2397890011-480x270.jpg 480w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2397890011-320x180.jpg 320w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2397890011-960x540.jpg 960w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2397890011-1080x608.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2397890011.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-5\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><p id=\"caption-attachment-47287\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image Credit: Shutterstock.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>America&rsquo;s obsession with brands and status symbols has also played a role in debt accumulation. Many individuals feel pressure to have the latest designer clothing or luxury items to fit in with a certain social group or present a certain image.<\/p>\n<p>This desire for expensive brands often leads people to overspend and rack up credit card debt as they strive to maintain a certain status or image.<\/p>\n<h2>9. Lack of Financial Education<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_47587\" style=\"width: 1290px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-47587\" class=\"size-full wp-image-47587\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2489152411.jpg\" alt=\"Hands, home and counting cash for budget, savings or profit from trading with laptop in night. Person, money and planning for investment, bills or payment with dollar, decision and computer in house\" width=\"1280\" height=\"720\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2489152411.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2489152411-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2489152411-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2489152411-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2489152411-728x410.jpg 728w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2489152411-480x270.jpg 480w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2489152411-320x180.jpg 320w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2489152411-960x540.jpg 960w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2489152411-1080x608.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-47587\" class=\"size-full wp-image-47587 lazyload\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2489152411.jpg\" alt=\"Hands, home and counting cash for budget, savings or profit from trading with laptop in night. Person, money and planning for investment, bills or payment with dollar, decision and computer in house\" width=\"1280\" height=\"720\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2489152411.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2489152411-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2489152411-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2489152411-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2489152411-728x410.jpg 728w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2489152411-480x270.jpg 480w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2489152411-320x180.jpg 320w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2489152411-960x540.jpg 960w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2489152411-1080x608.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/Shutterstock_2489152411.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-6\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><p id=\"caption-attachment-47587\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image Credit: Shutterstock.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>One of the underlying issues contributing to America&rsquo;s debt crisis is the lack of financial education in our society. Many individuals are not taught how to manage their finances, budget effectively, or understand the long-term consequences of their financial decisions.<\/p>\n<p>Without this knowledge, it&rsquo;s easy for people to fall into the traps of consumerism, overspending, and living beyond their means. We must promote financial education at all levels of society to help individuals make more informed and responsible decisions about their finances.<\/p>\n<h2>10. Failing to Save for Emergencies<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_49602\" style=\"width: 1610px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-49602\" class=\"size-full wp-image-49602\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/stressed-woman-budget-receipt-finance-money.jpg\" alt=\"stressed woman budget receipt finance money\" width=\"1600\" height=\"900\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/stressed-woman-budget-receipt-finance-money.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/stressed-woman-budget-receipt-finance-money-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/stressed-woman-budget-receipt-finance-money-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/stressed-woman-budget-receipt-finance-money-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/stressed-woman-budget-receipt-finance-money-728x410.jpg 728w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/stressed-woman-budget-receipt-finance-money-480x270.jpg 480w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/stressed-woman-budget-receipt-finance-money-320x180.jpg 320w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/stressed-woman-budget-receipt-finance-money-960x540.jpg 960w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/stressed-woman-budget-receipt-finance-money-1080x608.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-49602\" class=\"size-full wp-image-49602 lazyload\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/stressed-woman-budget-receipt-finance-money.jpg\" alt=\"stressed woman budget receipt finance money\" width=\"1600\" height=\"900\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/stressed-woman-budget-receipt-finance-money.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/stressed-woman-budget-receipt-finance-money-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/stressed-woman-budget-receipt-finance-money-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/stressed-woman-budget-receipt-finance-money-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/stressed-woman-budget-receipt-finance-money-728x410.jpg 728w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/stressed-woman-budget-receipt-finance-money-480x270.jpg 480w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/stressed-woman-budget-receipt-finance-money-320x180.jpg 320w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/stressed-woman-budget-receipt-finance-money-960x540.jpg 960w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/stressed-woman-budget-receipt-finance-money-1080x608.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/stressed-woman-budget-receipt-finance-money.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-7\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><p id=\"caption-attachment-49602\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image Credit: Deposit Photos.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Another culturally acceptable habit is a failure to save for emergencies. Many Americans live paycheck to paycheck and don&rsquo;t have enough savings to cover unexpected expenses such as medical bills or car repairs.<\/p>\n<p>This leads them to turn to credit cards or loans to cover these expenses, further adding to their debt load. By not having a financial safety net, individuals are putting themselves at risk for more debt and financial instability.<\/p>\n<h2>11. No Budgeting in Place<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_49095\" style=\"width: 1290px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-49095\" class=\"size-full wp-image-49095\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2480009305.jpg\" alt=\"Elderly Woman'S Hands Count Money, Euros, In Close-Up View\" width=\"1280\" height=\"720\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2480009305.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2480009305-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2480009305-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2480009305-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2480009305-728x410.jpg 728w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2480009305-480x270.jpg 480w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2480009305-320x180.jpg 320w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2480009305-960x540.jpg 960w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2480009305-1080x608.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-49095\" class=\"size-full wp-image-49095 lazyload\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2480009305.jpg\" alt=\"Elderly Woman'S Hands Count Money, Euros, In Close-Up View\" width=\"1280\" height=\"720\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2480009305.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2480009305-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2480009305-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2480009305-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2480009305-728x410.jpg 728w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2480009305-480x270.jpg 480w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2480009305-320x180.jpg 320w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2480009305-960x540.jpg 960w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2480009305-1080x608.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2480009305.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-8\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><p id=\"caption-attachment-49095\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image Credit: Shutterstock.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>The lack of a budget for financial goals contributes to unnecessary debt. Without a budget in place, it&rsquo;s easy for individuals to overspend and not have a clear understanding of where their money is going.<\/p>\n<p>Setting financial goals and creating a budget helps people prioritize their spending and focus on paying off debt instead of accumulating more. Individuals must take control of their finances by setting budgets and sticking to them.<\/p>\n<h2>12. Failure to Prioritize Debt Repayment<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_41594\" style=\"width: 1610px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-41594\" class=\"size-full wp-image-41594\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Stressed-caucasian-woman-trying-to-deal-with-financial-documents-having-problem-to-find-money-to-pay-utility-bills-or-loans.jpg\" alt=\"Stressed caucasian woman trying to deal with financial documents, having problem to find money to pay utility bills or loans\" width=\"1600\" height=\"900\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Stressed-caucasian-woman-trying-to-deal-with-financial-documents-having-problem-to-find-money-to-pay-utility-bills-or-loans.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Stressed-caucasian-woman-trying-to-deal-with-financial-documents-having-problem-to-find-money-to-pay-utility-bills-or-loans-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Stressed-caucasian-woman-trying-to-deal-with-financial-documents-having-problem-to-find-money-to-pay-utility-bills-or-loans-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Stressed-caucasian-woman-trying-to-deal-with-financial-documents-having-problem-to-find-money-to-pay-utility-bills-or-loans-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Stressed-caucasian-woman-trying-to-deal-with-financial-documents-having-problem-to-find-money-to-pay-utility-bills-or-loans-728x410.jpg 728w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Stressed-caucasian-woman-trying-to-deal-with-financial-documents-having-problem-to-find-money-to-pay-utility-bills-or-loans-480x270.jpg 480w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Stressed-caucasian-woman-trying-to-deal-with-financial-documents-having-problem-to-find-money-to-pay-utility-bills-or-loans-320x180.jpg 320w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Stressed-caucasian-woman-trying-to-deal-with-financial-documents-having-problem-to-find-money-to-pay-utility-bills-or-loans-960x540.jpg 960w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Stressed-caucasian-woman-trying-to-deal-with-financial-documents-having-problem-to-find-money-to-pay-utility-bills-or-loans-1080x608.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-41594\" class=\"size-full wp-image-41594 lazyload\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Stressed-caucasian-woman-trying-to-deal-with-financial-documents-having-problem-to-find-money-to-pay-utility-bills-or-loans.jpg\" alt=\"Stressed caucasian woman trying to deal with financial documents, having problem to find money to pay utility bills or loans\" width=\"1600\" height=\"900\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Stressed-caucasian-woman-trying-to-deal-with-financial-documents-having-problem-to-find-money-to-pay-utility-bills-or-loans.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Stressed-caucasian-woman-trying-to-deal-with-financial-documents-having-problem-to-find-money-to-pay-utility-bills-or-loans-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Stressed-caucasian-woman-trying-to-deal-with-financial-documents-having-problem-to-find-money-to-pay-utility-bills-or-loans-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Stressed-caucasian-woman-trying-to-deal-with-financial-documents-having-problem-to-find-money-to-pay-utility-bills-or-loans-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Stressed-caucasian-woman-trying-to-deal-with-financial-documents-having-problem-to-find-money-to-pay-utility-bills-or-loans-728x410.jpg 728w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Stressed-caucasian-woman-trying-to-deal-with-financial-documents-having-problem-to-find-money-to-pay-utility-bills-or-loans-480x270.jpg 480w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Stressed-caucasian-woman-trying-to-deal-with-financial-documents-having-problem-to-find-money-to-pay-utility-bills-or-loans-320x180.jpg 320w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Stressed-caucasian-woman-trying-to-deal-with-financial-documents-having-problem-to-find-money-to-pay-utility-bills-or-loans-960x540.jpg 960w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Stressed-caucasian-woman-trying-to-deal-with-financial-documents-having-problem-to-find-money-to-pay-utility-bills-or-loans-1080x608.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/Stressed-caucasian-woman-trying-to-deal-with-financial-documents-having-problem-to-find-money-to-pay-utility-bills-or-loans.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-9\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><p id=\"caption-attachment-41594\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image Credit: Deposit Photos.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Many individuals fail to prioritize debt repayment in their financial goals. With so many cultural pressures and expectations, it&rsquo;s easy for paying off debt to fall by the wayside.<\/p>\n<p>However, not prioritizing debt repayment only prolongs the cycle of debt and makes it harder to achieve financial stability.<\/p>\n<h2>13. Not Adjusting Spending Habits After Divorce<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_50159\" style=\"width: 1290px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-50159\" class=\"size-full wp-image-50159\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2355341569.jpg\" alt=\"Upset, bedroom and woman in argument with her husband for divorce, marriage problem or breakup. Sad, depression and female person fighting with her partner for toxic relationship or cheating at home.\" width=\"1280\" height=\"720\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2355341569.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2355341569-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2355341569-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2355341569-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2355341569-728x410.jpg 728w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2355341569-480x270.jpg 480w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2355341569-320x180.jpg 320w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2355341569-960x540.jpg 960w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2355341569-1080x608.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-50159\" class=\"size-full wp-image-50159 lazyload\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2355341569.jpg\" alt=\"Upset, bedroom and woman in argument with her husband for divorce, marriage problem or breakup. Sad, depression and female person fighting with her partner for toxic relationship or cheating at home.\" width=\"1280\" height=\"720\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2355341569.jpg 1280w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2355341569-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2355341569-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2355341569-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2355341569-728x410.jpg 728w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2355341569-480x270.jpg 480w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2355341569-320x180.jpg 320w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2355341569-960x540.jpg 960w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2355341569-1080x608.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Shutterstock_2355341569.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-10\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><p id=\"caption-attachment-50159\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image Credit: Shutterstock.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>With divorce rates continually high, it&rsquo;s important to address the impact it can have on an individual&rsquo;s finances. Many individuals may not adjust their spending habits after a divorce, leading to financial struggles and debt.<\/p>\n<p>Divorce often means managing expenses on one income instead of two, which requires a change in lifestyle and budgeting. Failing to do so can lead to overspending and accumulating unnecessary debt. Plus, the divorce itself can eat up a significant amount of assets, further contributing to the debt crisis.<\/p>\n<h2>14. Gambling and Addiction<\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_50863\" style=\"width: 1610px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-50863\" class=\"size-full wp-image-50863\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Depressed-young-man-drinking-beer-at-table.jpg\" alt=\"Depressed young man drinking beer at table\" width=\"1600\" height=\"900\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Depressed-young-man-drinking-beer-at-table.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Depressed-young-man-drinking-beer-at-table-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Depressed-young-man-drinking-beer-at-table-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Depressed-young-man-drinking-beer-at-table-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Depressed-young-man-drinking-beer-at-table-728x410.jpg 728w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Depressed-young-man-drinking-beer-at-table-480x270.jpg 480w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Depressed-young-man-drinking-beer-at-table-320x180.jpg 320w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Depressed-young-man-drinking-beer-at-table-960x540.jpg 960w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Depressed-young-man-drinking-beer-at-table-1080x608.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-50863\" class=\"size-full wp-image-50863 lazyload\" src=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Depressed-young-man-drinking-beer-at-table.jpg\" alt=\"Depressed young man drinking beer at table\" width=\"1600\" height=\"900\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Depressed-young-man-drinking-beer-at-table.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Depressed-young-man-drinking-beer-at-table-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Depressed-young-man-drinking-beer-at-table-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Depressed-young-man-drinking-beer-at-table-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Depressed-young-man-drinking-beer-at-table-728x410.jpg 728w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Depressed-young-man-drinking-beer-at-table-480x270.jpg 480w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Depressed-young-man-drinking-beer-at-table-320x180.jpg 320w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Depressed-young-man-drinking-beer-at-table-960x540.jpg 960w, https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Depressed-young-man-drinking-beer-at-table-1080x608.jpg 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 20px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Depressed-young-man-drinking-beer-at-table.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-11\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><p id=\"caption-attachment-50863\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Image Credit: Deposit Photos.<\/p><\/div>\n<p>Addiction, whether it be to gambling, drugs, or alcohol, can also contribute to debt. These behaviors often come with financial consequences, such as spending large amounts of money on drugs or compulsive gambling.<\/p>\n<p>Addiction can quickly spiral out of control and lead individuals into overwhelming debt. We must address addiction and provide support and resources for those struggling with it to help prevent financial struggles.<\/p>\n<p>Ultimately, the debt crisis in America is not solely caused by one factor but rather by a combination of societal pressures and personal habits<\/p>\n<h3>Read more:<\/h3>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/these-12-u-s-states-are-drowning-in-debt\/\">These 12 U.S. States Are Drowning in Debt<\/a><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/the-top-habits-for-avoiding-and-falling-into-credit-card-debt-according-to-experts\/\">The Top Habits for Avoiding (and Falling Into) Credit Card Debt, According to Experts<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Accruing mountains of debt is a common problem among Americans. Data reveals the typical American household carries over $103,000 in debt, including mortgages, credit cards (we&rsquo;re looking at you, holiday shopping), and car loans. This can be a source of stress as individuals or families try to figure out how to get out of devastating &hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":48,"featured_media":69790,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_stopmodifiedupdate":false,"_modified_date":"","rop_custom_images_group":[],"rop_custom_messages_group":[],"rop_publish_now":"no","rop_publish_now_accounts":[],"rop_publish_now_history":[],"rop_publish_now_status":"pending","disable-in-feed":false,"article-schema-type":"","disable-critical-css":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[8128],"tags":[],"ppma_author":[8105],"class_list":["post-56137","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-money"],"authors":[{"term_id":8105,"user_id":48,"is_guest":0,"slug":"mercy","display_name":"Mercy Kambura","avatar_url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/56ccbefa63cdfdba205a0523808201ad773798ec94ee608e41fb758b39f04242?s=96&d=blank&r=g","0":null,"1":"","2":"","3":"","4":"","5":"","6":"","7":"","8":""}],"mv":{"thumbnail_id":69790,"thumbnail_uri":"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Shutterstock_101030659-300x169.jpg"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/56137","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/48"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=56137"}],"version-history":[{"count":10,"href":"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/56137\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":69792,"href":"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/56137\/revisions\/69792"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/69790"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=56137"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=56137"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=56137"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.backyardgardenlover.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/ppma_author?post=56137"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}