Debt doesn’t always start with a dramatic event. It creeps in quietly. A missed credit card payment here, a medical bill left unpaid there. For many Americans, it feels manageable at first. But before long, the numbers stack up, and the stress builds.
In 2025, the numbers speak for themselves. Total U.S. household debt hit $18.39 trillion in Q2, up from $18.2 trillion in Q1. And the average American now carries $90,460 in debt, a figure that includes everything from credit cards and personal loans to mortgages and student debt.
The truth is, debt isn’t uncommon. But ignoring it? That’s where real trouble begins.
A Tale of Two Outcomes
Let’s imagine two different people in Anniston and Gadsden. Their names are fictional, but their situations are all too real.
Scenario One: Rachel, Age 34, Credit Card Spiral
Rachel was doing well. She had a decent job, a car loan, and a few credit cards she used for everyday purchases. Then a sudden illness put her out of work for two months. Without a paycheck, she leaned harder on credit cards and skipped a few car payments.
Once she was back at work, she felt overwhelmed by the growing balances. She told herself she’d catch up next month. That next month turned into another. Soon, collection notices started piling up. She stopped opening them. Her credit score dropped by over 100 points. Calls from debt collectors became a daily stressor. Eventually, her wages were garnished, and her car was repossessed.
Rachel didn’t plan to ignore her debt. But avoiding it only made her situation worse. Her anxiety skyrocketed, and her ability to rebuild her financial health was severely delayed.
Scenario Two: Marcus, Age 42, Seeking Help Early
Marcus had a similar situation. After a divorce and job loss, his debts started to outpace his income. But rather than pushing the issue aside, he made a call—to a bankruptcy attorney.
He learned about his options, including debt consolidation and the possibility of filing for bankruptcy. With professional support, Marcus filed a Chapter 13 bankruptcy, which allowed him to keep his house and car while repaying some of his debt over time. His creditors stopped calling, and he finally had a plan in place.
Today, Marcus has a fresh start. His credit is slowly rebuilding, and more importantly, his stress level is much lower. He took control—and it made all the difference.
The Real-Life Consequences of Ignoring Debt
People avoid dealing with debt for many reasons: fear, stress, or simply putting it off. But the consequences of ignoring debt often come faster than expected.
Here’s what can happen if you wait too long:
- Wage Garnishment: Creditors can take legal action to seize a portion of your paycheck.
- Vehicle Repossession: If you fall behind on car payments, your lender can reclaim the vehicle without notice.
- Home Foreclosure: Mortgage lenders may begin the foreclosure process if payments are missed.
- Frozen Bank Accounts: A court judgment can allow creditors to freeze your checking or savings accounts.
- Ruined Credit: Missed payments and collections can remain on your credit report for seven years or more.
- Mental Health Strain: Chronic financial stress can contribute to depression, anxiety, and physical health issues.
These are just a few of the consequences of ignoring debt, and they’re not limited to people with high balances or low incomes. Anyone can fall behind, especially when unexpected life events strike.
What Debt Management Really Means
Debt management isn’t about punishment—it’s about taking control. Whether that means creating a budget, consolidating debt, negotiating with creditors, or filing for bankruptcy, the first step is the most important: facing it.
At Jennings & Messer, we help clients in the Anniston and Gadsden areas assess their financial situation without judgment. We know the courage it takes to admit you’re struggling and we respect it.
When you work with a legal team that understands the full picture, you gain access to tools and strategies designed to protect your rights and rebuild your financial health.
Don’t Let the Debt Make the Decisions
Mounting debt has a way of controlling your life. It dictates what you can afford, where you can live, even how you sleep at night. But you don’t have to keep letting it call the shots.
If you’re overwhelmed or simply don’t know where to begin, we encourage you to speak with someone who can help you sort through your options.
Whether you’re looking into debt management strategies or considering bankruptcy, early action can protect your assets, reduce stress, and help you get back on track.
Ready to Talk?
At Jennings & Messer, we believe no one should have to face the consequences of ignoring debt alone. We’re here to help you explore real, practical solutions that can improve your financial health, not months from now, but starting today.
Contact us for a free consultation. Let’s build a plan before the debt causes more damage.