Going bankrupt can feel like a slow-motion train wreck. The fear of exposure, the shame of failure, and the overwhelming uncertainty make each day a tightrope walk between maintaining appearances and facing the harsh reality of a crumbling financial world.

Financial Secrets (primary); Regrets, Guilt, or Shame

APPROACHING FINANCIAL RUIN, HIDING A GAMBLING PROBLEM

ABANDONMENT, BEING A BURDEN TO OTHERS, BEING JUDGED, BEING PITIED, BEING TAKEN ADVANTAGE OF, BEING UNABLE TO ACHIEVE A DREAM, CHANGE, CONDITIONAL LOVE, CONFLICT, CRITICISM, FAILURE, HUMILIATION, LEAVING NO LEGACY, LETTING OTHERS DOWN, LOSING AUTONOMY, LOSING FINANCIAL SECURITY, LOSING ONE'S SOCIAL STANDING, LOSING THE RESPECT OF OTHERS

Taking unwise financial risks in a desperate attempt to forestall the inevitable, which makes the situation worse
Turning to numbing behaviors to avoid the shame and failure they feel, perhaps even going into deeper debt to do so
Seeking to keep up appearances by continuing to spend
Living in denial and sinking into a deeper financial hole
Having to sacrifice valued things in private (vacations, educational pursuits, eating out, entertainment expenditures, etc.)

Cutting the budget and making changes in ways other people won't notice
Privately selling possessions that will bring an influx of cash (stocks, jewelry, furniture, etc.)
Postponing large purchases
Downplaying financial difficulties with partners, landlords, or employees
Seeking help from a discreet source—e.g., asking a friend or family member for a loan
Maintaining a prosperous public image (dressing well, attending social events, etc.