Yeah, deferred pymt (forbearance) can catch up to you. I ought know.
However, I did hear of a rumor,
and it just may be that...a rumor, that the Feds may forgive some of the interest that has accrued on some accounts. Some of the interest that has accumulated over the years account for 80-90% of principal on any given loan.
ps - Have you checked your credit report lately?
atp