Crisis Safety Plan
Your emergency roadmap. Saved securely on this device.
Pre-populated based on clinical evidence for grief and bereavement. Learn them before a crisis happens.
- Expressing desire to die or 'join' the deceased
- Giving away possessions or making final arrangements
- Obtaining means (weapons, stockpiling medications)
- Sudden calm after prolonged agitation (may indicate decision made)
- Explicit statements: 'I can't do this without them' with plan or intent
- Self-harm or reckless behavior with no regard for safety
- Persistent inability to eat, sleep, or perform basic self-care (2+ weeks)
- Complete social withdrawal — not answering phone, door, or messages
- Excessive alcohol or substance use to numb grief
- Intrusive traumatic imagery that prevents daily functioning
- Dissociative episodes (losing time, not recognizing surroundings)
- Rage episodes directed at self or others
- Grief intensity not decreasing after 6+ months
- Avoidance of all reminders of the deceased (photos, places, people)
- Inability to speak the deceased's name without flooding
- Persistent guilt or self-blame about the death
- Loss of interest in all previously meaningful activities
- Physical symptoms without medical explanation (chest pain, breathing difficulty)
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.