There is no need for most people in the us today to have to file for personal bankruptcy. The problem is really one of a lack of information out there. That is actually a real shame. I think personally that if more information was out there then people would feel a lot better about things generally.
For example, there are several different programs that people can join up with. One is debt relief and another is debt consolidation. They both have particular advantages and disadvantages. It is really up to the individual to decide what is going to be the best. They are both much preferable to having to declare bankruptcy however, so they should be really closely considered.