Crisis Plan Definitions & Crisis Plan
WHAT IS A CRISIS PLAN?
A crisis plan is a personalized, step-by-step guide designed to help individuals manage and navigate through mental health crises by identifying warning signs, coping strategies, and supportive contacts.
5 STEPS OF A CRISIS PLAN
1. Identify Warning Signs
• Help the individual recognize thoughts, feelings, or behaviors that indicate the onset of a suicidal crisis (e.g., feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, or engaging in risky behaviors).
• Examples: intense sadness, withdrawal from others, talking about feeling like a burden.
2. Utilize Internal Coping Strategies
• Develop strategies the person can use on their own to distract themselves or cope with suicidal thoughts without needing external help.
• Examples: engaging in hobbies, practicing deep breathing, using grounding techniques, or journaling.
MAKE YOUR ENVIRONMENT SAFE - REMOVE/LOCK UP ANYTHING THAT IS DANGEROUS TO YOU
3. Reach Out to Social Contacts for Distraction
• Identify people and places that can provide positive distraction, not necessarily to talk about suicidal thoughts but to help shift focus.
• Examples: going to a public place, calling or visiting a friend, spending time with a pet.
4. Contact Family, Friends, or Professionals for Support
• List individuals the person can turn to for support during a crisis, such as close friends, family members, or a therapist.
Encourage the person to share their feelings and ask for help.
Examples: calling a trusted family member, contacting a supportive friend, reaching out to a therapist or counselor.
5. Professional or Agency Contacts
• Identify mental health professionals or emergency services the person can contact if they are unable to manage the crisis.
Include suicide hotline numbers, crisis text lines, or nearby emergency rooms.
Examples: National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (in the U.S.), a local crisis intervention center, or 911 for immediate help.
