Personal Crisis Safety Plan

A step-by-step plan for managing emotional crises and staying safe

GeneralWorksheetFree ResourceLast reviewed April 2026

Personal Crisis Safety Plan

A step-by-step plan for managing emotional crises and staying safe

A safety plan is a personalized, prioritized list of coping strategies and resources you can use when experiencing a crisis or having thoughts of self-harm. Research by Stanley and Brown (2012, updated 2022) demonstrates that having a written safety plan significantly reduces suicidal behavior and emergency department visits. Complete this plan during a calm moment so it is ready when you need it. Share a copy with your therapist and a trusted person in your life.

Fill in each row during a time when you feel safe and grounded. Be as specific as possible. Review and update your plan regularly with your mental health provider. Keep it easily accessible (e.g., on your phone, in your wallet, or posted at home).

StepMy Plan

Common Questions

What is the Personal Crisis Safety Plan worksheet?

A safety plan is a personalized, prioritized list of coping strategies and resources you can use when experiencing a crisis or having thoughts of self-harm.

How do I use the Personal Crisis Safety Plan worksheet?

Fill out this worksheet digitally or print it for use in session. You can save your progress with a Pro account. Take your time with each column — there are no right or wrong answers.

Is the Personal Crisis Safety Plan worksheet free?

Yes. Like every worksheet on Therapy Resource, it is free to read, print, and download as a PDF — no account required. A Pro subscription adds online filling with saved progress, practice-branded PDF exports, and secure client sharing.

Can I fill out the Personal Crisis Safety Plan worksheet online?

Yes — switch the worksheet to "Type on Screen" mode to fill in the fields directly in your browser before printing. Pro members can also save their entries across sessions and export the completed worksheet as a branded PDF.

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