Safety Plan

A safety plan is a personalised, practical strategy designed to help individuals who are at risk of suicide manage their emotions and stay safe. Mental health professionals, friends, family members, or other support networks typically collaborate in developing the safety plan. The purpose of a safety plan is to provide specific guidance and coping mechanisms for individuals to use during times of crisis, reducing the risk of self-harm or suicide.

Here are key components often included in a safety plan:

  1. Triggers and warning signs

    • Identify specific triggers or situations that might lead to suicidal thoughts or behaviours.

    • Recognise warning signs that indicate the person is in distress.

  2. Internal coping strategies

    • List activities or strategies that can help the individual manage overwhelming emotions on their own. This may include deep-breathing exercises, mindfulness techniques, or engaging in a favourite hobby.

  3. Social Contacts as Distractions

    • Identify friends, family members, or other supportive individuals who the person can reach out to during a crisis.

    • Establish a communication plan for contacting these individuals.

  4. Professional Support

    • List contact information for mental health professionals, crisis hotlines, or other relevant resources.

    • Include information on emergency services or local crisis intervention teams.

  5. Making the environment safe

    • Identify and remove potential means of self-harm or suicide from the person's environment.

    • Implement safety measures, such as securing medications or firearms.

  6. Emergency Contacts

    • Include emergency contact information, such as local emergency services and the contact information of a trusted person who can assist during a crisis.

  7. Developing a Crisis Response Plan

    • Establish a step-by-step plan for what to do in case of a crisis. This may involve contacting specific individuals, seeking professional help, or engaging in specific coping strategies.

  8. Review and Update

    • Regularly review and update the safety plan to ensure its relevance and effectiveness.

    • Make adjustments based on changes in the individual's circumstances or mental health.

It's important to note that a safety plan should be created collaboratively, with the input and agreement of the person at risk. Additionally, ongoing support from mental health professionals is crucial in conjunction with the implementation of a safety plan.