Crisis Safety Plan
Your emergency roadmap. Saved securely on this device.
Pre-populated based on clinical evidence for ADD / ADHD (Adults). Learn them before a crisis happens.
- Expressing intent to harm themselves or others
- Suicidal statements or behavior (ADHD carries elevated suicide risk, especially with comorbid depression)
- Dangerous impulsive behavior with immediate safety risk: reckless driving, dangerous substance use, self-harm
- Complete inability to function or care for themselves for 48+ hours
- Psychotic symptoms (possible with stimulant misuse or comorbid conditions)
- Suicidal ideation: 'I'm a failure,' 'everyone would be better off without me'
- Stimulant medication misuse: taking more than prescribed, using to stay awake for days
- Stopping ADHD medication without telling their doctor, leading to significant functional decline
- Significant increase in alcohol or substance use
- Complete academic or occupational failure: losing job, failing out of school
- Severe emotional dysregulation: rage episodes, complete emotional shutdown
- Medication effectiveness decreasing: more distracted, more impulsive than usual on medication
- Sleep disruption worsening significantly
- Increasing conflict in relationships due to ADHD symptoms
- Falling significantly behind at work or school
- Stopping therapy or coaching without a plan
- Increased risk-taking behavior or impulsive decisions
Used in VA hospitals, crisis centers, and emergency departments worldwide. Fill it out before a crisis. Review it together regularly. Keep a copy on the refrigerator, in a wallet, and on a phone.
Warning Signs
Thoughts, moods, situations, or behaviors that signal a crisis may be developing.
Internal Coping Strategies
Things they can do on their own — without contacting anyone — to take their mind off the crisis.
People and Places That Provide Distraction
Social contacts or settings that can help shift focus — without necessarily discussing the crisis.
People I Can Ask for Help
Family members or friends who can help during a crisis — people they trust enough to tell what is happening.
Professionals and Agencies to Contact
Treatment providers, crisis lines, and emergency services.
741741 — Crisis Text Line (text HOME)
911 — Emergency Services
Making the Environment Safe
Specific steps to reduce access to lethal means. Refer to the Lethal Means Counseling section above.
One thing that makes life worth living
Research shows that identifying a specific reason to live — however small — is protective during a crisis.
Stanley, B. & Brown, G.K. (2012). Safety planning intervention: A brief intervention to mitigate suicide risk. Cognitive and Behavioral Practice, 19(2), 256–264.
What specific actions will you take when you notice warning signs? Personalize these for your situation.