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In Crisis Now? Call 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or Text "HELLO" to 741741

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Create Your Safety Plan

A safety plan is a prioritized written list of coping strategies and sources of support that you can use during a suicidal crisis. Research shows that safety planning reduces suicide attempts.

1

Recognize Warning Signs

Identify thoughts, images, moods, situations, and behaviors that indicate a crisis may be developing.

2

Internal Coping Strategies

Things you can do on your own to take your mind off problems without contacting others.

3

Social Contacts for Distraction

People and social settings that provide distraction (without discussing suicidal thoughts).

4

Support Contacts

Family members, friends, or others who can help when in crisis.

5

Professional Contacts

Mental health professionals or agencies who can be contacted during a crisis.

24/7 Crisis Resources:

988 - Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

Text "HELLO" to 741741 - Crisis Text Line

1-800-273-8255 (Press 1) - Veterans Crisis Line

6

Make Environment Safe

Steps to limit access to lethal means during a crisis.

7

Reasons for Living

The most important people, pets, events, or values that make life worth living.

About Safety Planning

The Safety Planning Intervention (SPI) was developed by Dr. Barbara Stanley and Dr. Gregory Brown. Research shows that individuals who complete a safety plan are significantly less likely to attempt suicide than those who do not.

Your safety plan should be:

  • Written in your own words
  • Brief and to the point
  • Kept in a place where you can easily access it during a crisis
  • Shared with your therapist, trusted friends, or family members
  • Updated regularly as your situation changes

Privacy Note: Your safety plan is saved locally on your device only. We do not have access to your plan. We recommend downloading a copy and sharing it with your therapist or a trusted person.