Protecting yourself and your money
A healing brain plus money decisions can be risky. This page is about keeping you safe. (This is general support, not legal or financial advice — please check with a trusted professional for big decisions.)
Overspending after injury
- Add a 24-hour “wait” rule before any non-essential purchase.
- Ask a trusted person to be a second set of eyes on big buys.
- Unsubscribe from shopping emails and delete saved cards.
Scam protection
- No real company asks for gift cards, passwords, or urgent secret payments.
- If someone pressures you to act right now — stop. That pressure is the warning sign.
- When in doubt, hang up and ask someone you trust.
Guardianship & trusted helpers
You may want a trusted person to help with money or paperwork. That’s not losing control — it’s building a safety team. A lawyer can explain safe options like a power of attorney.
Budgeting on a fixed income
- List your must-pay bills first (rent, utilities, food, medicine).
- Use automatic payments so nothing gets forgotten.
- Keep money in separate places: bills, savings, and a small “fun” amount.
Benefits help
You may qualify for disability benefits or support programs. It can be a slow process — ask a caseworker, advocate, or trusted helper to guide you through the paperwork.
Receiving help today is wise, not weak. Protect your energy and your peace.










