get into a vicious circle

To become involved in a negative situation that causes itself to worsen over time, rather than improve or resolve. 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've gotten into a vicious circle—and I'm constantly broke! These underdeveloped countries often get into a vicious circle of poverty from which its citizens have no way of escaping. After a month of working nights, I've gotten into a vicious circle of being exhausted during the day and wide awake at night.