Look at their lifestyle: eating out, clothes, new cars... If they had that much credit card debt, then they were in debt pure and simple.
Someone loses a job and it is going to hurt and that is why people should live within their means and save. Two years ago we went through quite a bit of our IRAs when my husband lost his job. One of the smartest things my husband suggested was paying off the (used) car. Not worrying about making that payment every month was quite a blessing. We survived.
I agree Ruth A. In our case, we were living well within our means until my husband got sick at the same time the factory closed! We used to be well off. Unfortunately medical costs are ridiculous and it doesn't take long to go thru substantial savings!