MessagesHelp.org
Safety & Crisis Steps
Write a Safety Plan with a friend
There are 2 types of Safety Plans when someone is at risk. The most common is a plan the person at risk writes, reminding them of the steps they can take from when the risk is low, to steps when the risk is uncomfortably high. There are many examples on the Internet from reputable agencies.
The other safety net plan is for you trying to help someone who has had suicidal ideas over a period of time. It will help you to respond constructively to the fluctuations that inevitably happen if you make a short note such as written below and refer to it when you feel the situation is becoming difficult.
Change our example or draw up your own ideas. Print or copy and fill in. Keep a copy each.
1. Identify early signs of difficulty
Make a list of warning signs:
- •Pulling away from people
- •Saying they feel like a burden
- •Saying life is pointless
- •Giving things away or saying goodbye
- •Feeling very stressed
2. What helps them feel steadier and distracts them
Make a list of calming activities:
- •Walking alone or together around a shopping mall
- •Sitting in a café or public space
- •Watching a familiar TV show
- •Doing a routine task together
- •Doing relaxation exercises or meditation with an App such as Calm
3. What would they look forward to normally?
Make a list of future hopes:
- •Seeing family members grow up and thrive from children to adulthood
- •Continuing friendships rather than distressed friends for years
- •Financial and career improvement
- •How would they feel over years if someone close suicided?
4. People they can contact
People they are comfortable contacting to just chat with, and people they can be open with about their suicidal ideas:
- •Contact: __________________________
- •Contact: __________________________
- •GP / counsellor: ___________________
5. What you can say
Supportive phrases:
- •"I'm here with you." "Message me any time you need help."
- •"You don't have to go through this alone."
- •"Would it help to sit together for a bit?"
Useful question/message: "If our positions were reversed, and I had your problems, what would you advise me to do?"
6. Professional and crisis support
We list multiple telephone support numbers in our Crisis section.
- •Emergency services: 119
This plan is an added layer of support. It assists but does not replace professional or crisis care.