Tools

Safety Plan

Universal

Stanley–Brown 6-step protocol

In immediate danger? Call 911 (US) or your local emergency number, or go to the nearest emergency room.
US: Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) · Crisis Text Line: text HOME to 741741.
What this is

A 6-step plan you build with your therapist for moments when you're at risk — your warning signs, things you can do on your own, people to call, and how to make your space safer.

Why it helps

The Stanley–Brown Safety Plan is one of the most evidence-based tools for suicide prevention. When a crisis hits, your brain narrows. A pre-written plan gives you the next step without asking you to think it up.

How to use it
  1. 1
    Build it when you're not in crisis
    Ideally with your therapist. Take your time on each step.
  2. 2
    Work the steps top to bottom
    Start with step 1. If it doesn't help, go to step 2. Each step gets you more support.
  3. 3
    Keep it on your phone
    Print it, screenshot it, bookmark it. The plan only works if you can find it fast.

The plan stays on your device. The crisis numbers above always work — even if you're not sure.

Step 1

Warning signs

Thoughts, feelings, situations, behaviours that tell you a crisis may be developing.

Step 2

Internal coping strategies

Things you can do on your own to take your mind off problems — without contacting anyone.

Step 3

People & places that distract

Healthy people or settings that take your mind off it. Doesn't have to be about the crisis.

Step 4

People I can ask for help

People who know what's going on and you can ask for support. Whatever name or role works for you.

Step 5

Professionals & crisis lines

Your therapist, doctor, and crisis numbers below. Add the ones you'd actually use.

Step 6

Make my environment safer

Steps to reduce access to means — meds, alcohol, weapons, anything you'd use to hurt yourself.

Always-on numbers
  • 988 — Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (US, call or text)
  • 741741 — Crisis Text Line (US/CA/UK/IE: text HOME)
  • 911 — Emergency (US). Use your local equivalent.