A mental health safety plan will help you cope in a mental health crisis. When you’re in crisis, it can be hard to think straight. You may have thoughts of harming yourself or others. You may be struggling and feel overwhelmed. At those times, a safety plan helps you take care of yourself. It is a step-by-step map that you help create. The plan supports you after you are discharged.
Creating your plan
Find a calm time to create your safety plan. Go over it with your doctor or counselor. Ask for feedback. Share this plan with people you trust who can help you through a crisis. Keep your safety plan in a place where you can review it often.
It’s important to commit to using this safety plan. And it’s important to get the support you need. Write down answers to these questions so you are ready when you leave the hospital:
When will I need to use my plan? List the situations and warning signs that mean problems may start to develop.
___________________________________________________________________________________
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What are healthy and safe ways to distract or comfort myself?
___________________________________________________________________________________
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Where can I go to feel safe?
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
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What are my reasons for living?
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
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People I can talk to or call for support:
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
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My doctors or agencies to reach out to for help during a crisis:
___________________________________________________________________________________
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How can I make my environment safe? This may include giving up alcohol and drugs, removing any weapons from the home, and locking up all medicines.
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
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Follow-up care
Follow up with your doctor as often as advised. Don’t change your treatment or medicines. Talk with your doctor first. It’s important to work closely with your doctor to manage your condition.
Call or text 988
If you are in a crisis or have thoughts of suicide or self-harm, call or text
When to contact your doctor
Contact your doctor right away if:
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Your symptoms get worse.
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You feel extreme depression, fear, anxiety, or anger toward yourself or others.
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You feel out of control.
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You feel that you may try to harm yourself or others.
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You hear voices that others don’t hear.
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You see things that others don’t see.
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You haven't slept or eaten for 3 days in a row.
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Your friends or family express concern and ask you to get help.
Date Last Reviewed: 05/01/2025
© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
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