A map for when you lose your way.

You don’t wait for a fire to buy a smoke detector. You don’t wait to crash to wear a seatbelt.
A safety plan is the mental health version of that.

It’s not a sign of failure. It’s not a punishment. It’s a tool. Something you can grab onto when you can’t think clearly, and something others can follow when you’re too far gone to explain what you need.

🔹 What Is a Safety Plan?

A short, clear list of:

  • What your warning signs look like

  • What helps you feel grounded

  • Who to contact

  • What steps to take when things get bad

  • Where to go if you need urgent care

  • What NOT to do

You can write it down, keep it in your phone, or use a template from a therapist or crisis center.

🧭 Basic Safety Plan Template

You can copy this or change it to fit your life.

1. What are my early warning signs?
(Thoughts, behaviors, moods that show I’m headed for crisis)
• Not sleeping
• Withdrawing from people
• Hearing voices more often
• Thinking “everyone would be better off without me”

2. What helps ground me?
(Things I can try before asking for help)
• Holding ice cubes
• Texting a friend
• Wrapping up in my weighted blanket
• Walking with music
• Watching a comfort show

3. Who can I talk to?
(People I trust—even if I don’t want to talk yet)
• My therapist: [Name / Contact]
• Peer support: [Name / Contact]
• One friend I can text: [Name / Contact]

4. Where can I go if I need to be safe?
• Crisis respite center
• Local ER
• Public place I trust
• Call 988 – the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline for immediate support

5. What do I want others to know?
• Don’t argue with me if I’m spiraling—just help me feel safe
• Speak calmly and clearly
• Remind me that this will pass
• Let me choose if possible—don’t force

6. What do I want to avoid?
• Police if possible
• Physical restraint
• Certain hospitals I’ve had trauma in
• Isolation

🛠 Tips for Making It Work

  • Keep it visible (on your fridge, mirror, or phone lock screen)

  • Share it with people you trust

  • Review and revise it regularly

  • Practice using it before you’re in crisis

  • Add a short summary or a list of helpful resources here.