i think yellowted is right. From what you say, it sounds you had no other option but to declare bankruptcy. This is not the end of the world, nor are you the only person to have to do it, as the numbers of people declaring bankruptcy are rising. It sounds like some of your stress is being caused by your wife blaming you rather than her trying to co-operate with you. This may be her way of coping with the event rather than her really believing you are to blame. Can you discuss this with anyone? I am sure there will be debt helplines who may be able to give advice.