Creating a Safety Plan for Homicidal or Suicidal Clients
As a mental health professional, one of your top priorities is the safety of your clients. Whether they are experiencing suicidal or homicidal thoughts or behaviors, it’s important to have a plan in place to address emergencies and minimize risks. That’s where a safety plan comes in.
A safety plan is a personalized set of strategies and resources that a client can use to keep themselves safe in a crisis. It’s typically created collaboratively with the client and includes specific actions they can take to manage their thoughts and emotions, as well as a list of emergency contacts and resources they can reach out to for support. Here are some steps to follow when creating a safety plan for a client experiencing homicidal or suicidal thoughts or behaviors:
Step 1: Assess the client’s risk level. The first step in creating a safety plan is to assess the client’s risk level. This involves asking direct questions about suicidal or homicidal thoughts, plans, and intent. Use a standardized risk assessment tool if available to guide your assessment. This information will help you determine the level of urgency and the appropriate level of intervention needed.
Step 2: Identify warning signs and triggers. Once you have assessed the client’s risk level, it’s important to identify warning signs and triggers that may indicate a crisis is imminent. This could include changes in mood or behavior, increased substance use, or recent life stressors. Discuss with your client what specific warning signs and triggers they have experienced in the past.
Step 3: Develop coping strategies. With the client’s input, develop a list of coping strategies they can use to manage their thoughts and emotions when they experience warning signs or triggers. This could include mindfulness exercises, breathing techniques, or engaging in activities they enjoy. Encourage your client to practice these coping strategies regularly, so they become familiar and effective.
Step 4: Create a list of emergency contacts and resources. Ensure your client has a list of emergency contacts and resources they can reach out to for support in a crisis. This could include crisis hotlines, emergency mental health services, and local hospitals. Make sure your client knows how to access these resources and encourage them to keep this list handy in case of an emergency.
Step 5: Review and revise the safety plan regularly. A safety plan should be reviewed and revised regularly to ensure it remains relevant and effective. Schedule regular check-ins with your client to discuss any changes in their thoughts, feelings, or behaviors, and update the safety plan accordingly. Encourage your client to take ownership of their safety plan and involve them in the review and revision process.
Creating a safety plan can help your clients feel more in control and empowered in managing their mental health. By following these steps and working collaboratively with your client, you can help minimize the risk of harm and ensure they receive the support they need in a crisis.
