Safety Planning (SP)
SP is an intervention to help Veterans experiencing suicidal thoughts and behaviors. By working together with your provider, you will create a safety plan that includes a list of prioritized coping strategies and sources of support to use in preventing or responding to a suicidal crisis. The plan can help you discover healthy ways to cope with suicidal thoughts, curb harmful behaviors, and improve your quality of life.
SP can be a single session or incorporated into ongoing treatment with your provider. Creating the SP may take about an hour. After creating a safety plan, you may:
Experience a heightened sense of self-control.
Have a more optimistic attitude when it comes to addressing suicidal thoughts and crises.
If you choose SP, you may be asked to:
Work with your provider to create a list of coping strategies and resources to use during a suicidal episode.
Identify warning signs that signal when to use your coping strategies.
Discuss how to use the safety plan and how to overcome barriers or obstacles to using the plan.
Review the plan periodically with your provider when your circumstances or needs change.
Speak openly with your provider about your feelings and mental health symptoms so that you can work together to develop a safety plan that best meets your needs and situation.