be in a vicious circle

To be in a negative situation that by its own nature continues to worsen over time, rather than having a chance to improve or be resolved. The underdeveloped country has long been in a vicious circle of poverty from which its citizens have no way of escaping. I use my credit card because I don't make enough money to pay my bills, and as soon as I get paid, any extra money goes toward my credit card bill. I'm in this horrible vicious circle—and I'm constantly broke as a result! After a month of working nights, I'm usually in a vicious circle of being exhausted during the day and wide awake at night.