Money + Protection

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.