Crisis Safety Plan
Your emergency roadmap. Saved securely on this device.
Pre-populated based on clinical evidence for Bipolar II Disorder. Learn them before a crisis happens.
- Expressing intent to harm themselves or others
- Severe depression with active suicidal plan or intent
- Psychotic symptoms (rare in Bipolar 2 but possible in severe depression)
- Complete inability to care for basic needs: not eating, not bathing, not leaving bed for days
- Unresponsive or unable to recognize familiar people
- Suicidal ideation with statements like 'I don't want to be here anymore'
- Sleeping more than 14 hours per day or unable to get out of bed
- Hypomanic shift: notably elevated mood, decreased need for sleep, increased spending or risky behavior
- Stopping antidepressants or mood stabilizers without telling their doctor
- Severe hopelessness: 'nothing will ever get better,' 'I'm a burden to everyone'
- Alcohol or substance use escalating significantly
- Sleep changing significantly from their baseline (more or less)
- Increased irritability or emotional reactivity
- Withdrawing from social contact and activities they normally enjoy
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Increased self-criticism or statements of worthlessness
- Missing therapy or psychiatry appointments
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.