Safety Plans - The Importance of Having a Plan
Updated: Jul 29
Have You Heard of a Self-Harm Safety Plan?
When someone is struggling with self-harm, having a safety plan in place can be a powerful, practical tool. It’s a personalised plan that helps guide someone through overwhelming thoughts or urges, especially in moments when it’s hard to think clearly.
Here’s why a self-harm safety plan can really make a difference:
📝 It offers structure during a crisis
When emotions feel too big or everything feels too much, it’s easy to panic or act on impulse. A safety plan gives you something clear and familiar to turn to, a step-by-step guide to help ground you.
📝 It helps you spot the signs early
By writing down your own personal warning signs (like changes in mood, sleep, or thoughts), you can recognise when things are starting to feel off, and take action before things get worse.
📝 It reminds you of your own coping strategies
In the moment, it’s easy to forget what helps. Your plan can include healthy distractions, grounding tools, or calming techniques that you know work for you. Our kits are designed to support this part especially, with practical items that offer a safer way to cope.
📝 It connects you to people you trust
Knowing who you can call, message, or simply sit with is really important. A safety plan helps make those contacts clear, so you’re not figuring it out in a moment of distress, and the people you list will know how to support you, too.
📝 It puts you back in control
Having a plan is a powerful reminder that even in hard times, there are things you can do. It’s a way of saying to yourself, “I want to stay safe, and here’s how I’ll try.”
💚🧡 Try to create your plan when you’re feeling calm and able. Keep it somewhere safe and easy to access, like your journal, phone, or even inside one of our kits 💚🧡
You deserve support, and you’re not alone.
Get your FREE Self-Harm Safety Plan here:
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