What Has Been Most Helpful in Your Safety Plan?
I am currently trying to develop a safety plan because of ongoing SH urges and suicidal thoughts.
For those who have safety plans, what kinds of things have you included that you found helpful? For example, warning signs, coping strategies, people to contact, places to avoid, or anything else that has worked for you.
I am interested in hearing what has been useful for others as I work on my own plan.
@WilliamPeters
Dear Beloved,
You can identify personal warning signs that indicate you may be struggling, such as changes in your thoughts, emotions, behavior, sleep patterns, or level of social isolation. Identify places or situations that increase risk and consider ways to avoid them or make them safer. Consider removing or limiting access to items that could be used during periods of intense urges.
Coping strategies that can help reduce emotional intensity include deep breathing, distracting your mind with activities you enjoy, going for a walk, exercising, engaging in hobbies, or spending time with supportive people.
You can also create a list of reasons to stay safe, such as loved ones, pets, personal goals, and, most importantly, yourself and your well-being.
You can create a list of trusted people you can contact when you are struggling, including family members, therapists, counselors, or support groups. It may also be helpful to write down crisis resources that can be accessed quickly during difficult moments.
@Eternalbliss00Thank you for the suggestions. I am still working on my plan, and I can see how warning signs, safer places, and a short list of contacts could be useful. I’m going to keep it simple and focus on what actually helps when things get worse.
