Safety Plan

Hello Everyone!

When I was released from the hospital I had to have a safety plan written out. I realized after last week that it is important to share this plan with others so that no freakouts occur in the future.

When I am going into a big depression, which can lead to suicidal thoughts, there are warning signs. I will not run off to hang myself in a knee jerk sort of way. That is not how my brain or emotions function.

I have given this plan to Jason and now I am copying it here for anyone who is interested.

I do ask that you not call my group leaders if you have any doubts of where I am or what I am feeling. They do not know me well enough to make a judgement call nor are they allowed to give any information to you.


Warning Signs of Impending Doom

• Extreme use of alcohol
• Does not bathe, brush teeth, comb/brush hair
• Refuses to eat
• Sleeps all day, refuses to get out of bed
• Insomnia
• Rapid mood swings
• Cutting
• Increased agitation
• Talks about suicide more than usual (realistically I think about it, so MORE
is the key word here)
• Acts like she does not care about anything
• Increased crying
• Expresses feelings of hopelessness
• Little or no interest in activities
• An increase in inability to cope with daily tasks
• Isolation from family, friends
• Increase in headaches, stomach aches
• Takes meds more often than normal
• Researches suicide
• Listens to only depressing music


Manage During Depression or Crisis

• Keep your voice calm
• Listen to her
• Ask questions
• Discuss safety
• Offer options
• Ask how you can help
• Remain calm, avoid overreacting
• Don’t argue or shout
• Express support and concern
• Be patient and accepting
• Offer physical affection, especially hugs
• Remind her of your love and your willingness to keep her safe
• Heighten supervision


Helpful Thoughts

• What situations have led to a crisis in the past?
Feeling overwhelmed, too many responsibilities, Joshua stress,
friends/family overloading her, long string of bad experiences, triggers of
trauma

• What has worked to help reduce her stress before?
Helping with daily chores, lessening Joshua stress, giving
affection and offering help, suggesting relaxing and/or fun activities,
allowing space and safe alone time, assuring her of safety and
security

• What steps can I take to keep everyone safe and calm?
Remove alcohol if it is a problem, hide sharp objects, do as much of
the driving as possible, remind everyone in the home of stress
relieving activities, allow everyone space when needed

• Whom can I call for support in a crisis or to help calm the situation? These are
Jason's "go to" people that he feels comfortable asking for immediate support.

Libbi, Jerolyn, Bri

• What helps lift her mood?
Coloring, doing puzzles, jokes, massages, hugging, playing games,
couple time, sweets, upbeat music, dancing and singing