Creating a Safety Plan: A Tool for Suicide Prevention

September is Suicide Prevention & Awareness Month, which is a great time to talk openly about mental health and share resources that can save lives. One of the most effective tools in suicide prevention is something called a safety plan.

A safety plan is a simple, step-by-step guide designed to help you (or someone you love) stay safe during moments of crisis.

We can’t predict the future, but we can plan for the moments when things feel overwhelming. That’s exactly what a safety plan does - it makes sure you’re not left to figure it out alone.

What Is a Safety Plan?

A safety plan is a written list of coping strategies, support options, and crisis contacts.

It’s personalized to you and based on what helps you feel grounded, who you can turn to in tough times and local resources you can reach out to for help.

Having a safety plan in place doesn’t mean you’re failing - it's actually a proactive step towards protecting yourself and honoring your life.

What to Include in a Safety Plan

1. Warning Signs - Recognize the thoughts, feelings, or situations that let you know you might be heading into a difficult moment. For example: changes in sleep, withdrawing from others, or feeling hopeless.

2. Coping Strategies - Write down safe, healthy activities you can do on your own to help calm or distract yourself. Things like deep breathing, journaling, walking outside, or listening to music. Remember what has worked before in tough times or a strategy you think would help.

3. Support Network - List the names and phone numbers of people you can reach out to for connection and support - friends, family members, mentors, or faith leaders.

4. Professional Resources - Include contact information for your therapist, doctor, or support groups. Having these numbers handy makes it easier to reach out when you’re struggling.

5. Crisis Resources Always include immediate crisis contacts. In the U.S., you can call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline - available 24/7.

How to Build Your Plan

• Use a notebook, your phone’s notes app, or a printable worksheet to write down your plan.

• Share it with someone you trust, so they can support you if needed.

• Keep it somewhere accessible — saved on your phone, in your wallet, or taped inside a journal.

Why It Matters

Suicidal thoughts can feel overwhelming, but they are temporary. A safety plan acts as a lifeline - reminding you of the steps you can take, the people you can reach out to, and the resources available to help you through the moment.

Remember: you are not alone, and your story is not over.

If You Need Help Right Now

If you are struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out for help:

• Call or text 988 in the U.S. for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (available 24/7).

• If you’re outside the U.S., you can find international hotlines here: https://findahelpline.com

• If you are in immediate danger, please call 911.

Golden Counseling Center is here to walk with you through life’s challenges. While we are not an emergency service, our therapists can provide a safe, compassionate space to create a safety plan and explore the support you need. If you’re ready to take the next step, reach out to us here. If you are in immediate crisis, please use the emergency resources above.