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A solid and well thought out safety plan can significantly reduce the risk of an individual completing suicide through having access to support and knowing how to manage a crisis. Having a well constructed safety plan can also give the individual a sense of control during overwhelming moments so that they do not act impulsively. It is recommended that a safety plan is completed with a licensed mental health provider to ensure it is tailored to the individuals specific needs and circumstances. 

First, we need to identify warning signs of potential suicidal ideation. This could include potential behaviors, emotions, thoughts, or environments that signal the need for intervention. Second, we will list coping skills or strategies that can be used when warning signs arise. This could be using specific distress tolerance DBT skills such as self soothing, exercising, listening to music, watching your favorite movie, taking a cold shower, etc. Third, we will create a list of trusted individuals that you can reach out to for support. (friends, family, professionals). We will need to ensure these contacts are aware you are on their list to reach out to in moments of feeling overwhelmed. Fourth, we will make a list of emergency contacts that you can reach out to in a moment of crisis such as that National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1-800-273-8255 or 911. Then fifth, we will outline steps to keep your environment safe such as removing sharp objects and substances, putting medications in a medication lockbox, or securing firearms with gun locks. The final step does not prevent someone from completing suicide entirely, but slows down reactions in hopes to reduce impulsivity. 

We want to make sure individuals have quick access to their safety plan, so printing out a copy and keeping it in your nightstand or having a digital version on your phone is recommended. 

It is important to remember that each day there are people struggling with suicidal ideation that do not need hospital intervention. Sometimes hospitalization assessment or inpatient treatment is recommended if certain criteria is met, but this is not always necessary and needs to be discussed with a mental health clinician. Please consult with your mental health provider if you think creating a safety plan is a good choice for you or a loved one. Remember you are not alone and that there is hope and help even during the darkest moments. 

-Madison Meyerson, LSCSW