What is the purpose of a safety plan in suicide prevention?

The purpose of a safety plan in suicide prevention is to provide a structured, written strategy that outlines specific coping strategies and resources for individuals experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors. This plan serves as a personalized guide that can help them navigate crises more effectively. It typically includes an emergency contact list, including trusted friends, family members, and mental health professionals, which individuals can reach out to when they feel overwhelmed or in danger. Additionally, the safety plan incorporates various coping strategies tailored to the person’s preferences and needs, such as calling a hotline, engaging in distracting activities, or practicing grounding techniques. This proactive approach empowers individuals by equipping them with the tools they need to manage acute distress and seek help when necessary, reducing the likelihood of self-harm.

Other aspects, such as creating a list of medications, assessing the risk of self-harm, or determining the need for hospitalization, are certainly important components of overall mental health care but do not specifically capture the comprehensive and actionable nature of a safety plan focused on immediate strategies and support systems.