How can it be that consumer debt is rising while credit card debt is falling?

Consumer debt can rise overall while credit card debt falls due to shifts in borrowing patterns. For instance, individuals may be taking on more loans in other categories, such as personal loans, auto loans, or student loans, which can contribute to an increase in total consumer debt. Additionally, consumers may be paying down credit card balances or switching to other forms of financing, leading to a decrease in credit card debt specifically. This dynamic reflects changing financial behaviors and preferences among consumers.