💭 WHAT IS A SUICIDE SAFETY PLAN?
A suicide safety plan is a written guide for helping someone navigate suicidal feelings and urges. It serves as a step-by-step tool to navigate challenging moments and access long-term support. A suicide safety plan can also help you support someone who is having suicidal thoughts.
💜 WHEN TO CREATE A PLAN?
We encourage people to create their plan when thoughts of suicide aren't overpowering, involving someone you trust for suggestions. You can also collaborate with Suicide Prevention Advisers from HOPELINE247, ensuring personalised and evolving support.
💜 WHAT TO INCLUDE IN A SUICIDE SAFETY PLAN?
To build your suicide safety plan, make a list of everything you need to complete each of the below steps. The plan should be simple enough that it is easy to put into action when you need it. We would advise you to put your suicide safety plan in writing and keep it in a place where you can easily find it should the need arise.
• Why do I want to stay safe?
Connecting with reasons to stay safe amid suicidal thoughts is crucial. This section can include anything from daily goals to personal connections or meaningful activities.
• Making my environment safer
Identifying potential means for self-harm and creating barriers between them and yourself offers critical moments for reconsideration when thoughts of suicide intensify.
• What might make it harder for me to stay safe right now and what can I do about this?
Address factors hindering your safety and strategise safeguards for moments of suicidal thoughts, whether related to substance use, past experiences, mental health concerns, or immediate triggers.
• What can I do to stay safe right now?
Compile actionable steps for immediate safety, including coping mechanisms, basic needs fulfilment, and distraction techniques. Starting these strategies early aids in identifying warning signs or vulnerabilities.
• What strengths do I have that I can use to stay safe?
Explore personal strengths — creativity, organisational skills, support systems, faith, or qualities from admired individuals —to empower and aid in tough times.
• Who can I reach out to for help?
List trustworthy friends, family, helplines such as HOPELINE247, or emergency services for immediate aid. Also, outline plans for long-term support services and strategies.
A suicide safety plan isn't just about the immediate — it's a tool for navigating challenging moments and seeking lasting support, providing hope for a brighter future.
HOPELINE247 is here all day, every day, to offer guidance and help you develop a personalised safety plan to help you navigate difficult times. You can find a Suicide Safety Plan template on the PAPYRUS website here: https://lnkd.in/gkpP777k
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