In difficulties (2,3,5)
(Other definitions for up the creek that I've seen before include "In trouble, without paddle" , "In a difficult position" , "Scuppered" , "In severe difficulty (colloq.)" .)
'in difficulties' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)
This is the entire clue.
(Other definitions for hard-pressed that I've seen before include "In difficulties or tension" , "Closely pursued; in difficulties" .)
(Other definitions for in a pickle that I've seen before include "Experiencing difficulties" , "Suffering a difficult situation" .)