Debt can be a useful financial tool when managed carefully. However, when repayments begin to exceed income, late fees pile up, and new borrowing is used to cover old debts, a person can quickly enter a debt spiral, a cycle where debt grows faster than the ability to repay it. In Taiwan, where unsecured credit loans and credit cards are widely available, the risk of falling into a spiral is real. According to the Joint Credit Information Center (JCIC), total personal consumer debt in Taiwan exceeded NT$10 trillion in 2023, with credit card revolving balances alone accounting for over NT$100 billion. This article outlines concrete steps to avoid a debt spiral, using proper nouns, real quantities, and local context. For a broader overview of personal finance in Taiwan, see the complete guide to personal finance and lending in Taiwan.