What is a safety plan?
A safety plan is a personalised, practical plan designed to help you self-manage, reduce risk of harm, or respond/cope in times of crisis. Often, such potential crises relate to self-harm, suicidal thoughts, or mental health challenges, however safety plans may also be completed with a focus on concerns such as relational conflict or alcohol or drug use. A safety plan outlines specific steps a person can take to stay safe and get support when they’re feeling overwhelmed or at risk.
In relation to self-harm, suicide, and mental health, Scottish Action for Mental Health (SAMH) provide information on the purpose of a safe plan and what it may benefit from including (see images below). The North East Scotland Prevent Suicide app and website also contains a Safety Plan that you can complete yourself.
Scottish Action for Mental Health Information about Safety Plans
Scottish Action for Mental Health Useful Contacts
Source; samh.org.uk