A recent article from Talkspace highlights the importance of creating a suicide safety plan for individuals struggling with suicidal thoughts. According to research, in 2023, over 12.8 million adults in the United States reported having thoughts of suicide, and 1.5 million made an attempt.
The article emphasizes that developing a safety plan is a proactive step toward managing moments of crisis. Jill Daino, LCSW-R, BC-TMH, a therapist at Talkspace, stated: “Having a written plan can help ground you in the steps you need to take to stay safe. Being able to clearly read what you need to do helps slow down the thoughts and prevent actions. The plan can also help remind you of why you want to live and not harm yourself. It provides a quick reference about who to reach out to for support so you don’t have to figure out when feeling overwhelmed.”
A suicide safety plan serves several purposes: it offers clear instructions during times when decision-making may be impaired; it helps break impulsive patterns by establishing strategies ahead of time; it increases self-awareness by identifying personal triggers; it ensures that both mental health professionals and loved ones know how best to provide support; and studies suggest that having such a written plan can reduce suicidal behavior by up to 43%.
To create an effective safety plan, individuals are encouraged to identify warning signs from past experiences that signal increased risk. These might include specific moods or events that have previously led them into distress.
Identifying coping strategies tailored to individual needs is another critical component. “Coming up with realistic strategies is unique to each person and talking it through with a licensed mental health professional can help you create options that work for you. Being able to know what works for you and what doesn’t can make the safety plan more effective. For example, knowing that calling your mom is not helpful but that calling your best friend is helpful is valuable information. Knowing that a cool/cold shower helps ground you, or listening to your favorite music, being in nature, using grounding techniques like square breathing are all possible options. Ideally having a few choices listed will help in the moment so you don’t have to figure it out, you can pick something on the plan as a go-to strategy,” said Daino.
The article recommends listing supportive contacts—trusted friends or family members who can offer assistance—and including professional resources such as therapists or crisis hotlines like 988.
Ensuring one’s environment is safe involves securing medications, locking away sharp objects or firearms, restricting access to substances like alcohol, and removing items potentially used for self-harm.
Immediate action steps should be included in any safety plan so individuals know exactly what actions they can take when feeling vulnerable—such as reviewing warning signs or contacting someone for support.
For those supporting someone with suicidal ideation, active listening without judgment and helping review or update their safety plans are important roles. Supporters are also reminded of their own limits and encouraged to seek help if needed. “Worrying about a friend or family member who may be struggling with suicidal thoughts can be draining. It is important for loved ones to get support for their concerns and fears. Talking to a licensed mental health professional, trusted loved ones or a support group can help you support your loved one while also caring for yourself. It is also important to know your limits of what you can and cannot take on and when to get additional resources for your loved one. You do not have to do this alone, reaching out for additional help is crucial for everyone involved,” said Daino.
The article concludes by encouraging anyone who feels their own efforts are insufficient—or who needs further guidance—to reach out for professional mental health support through platforms like Talkspace.
If immediate assistance is required due to suicidal thoughts or behaviors in the U.S., individuals are urged call or text 988—the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline—for prompt help.
