How to Create a Family Safety Plan

If your child is struggling with their mental health, a family safety plan can help

When a child is struggling with their mental health they can become easily overwhelmed. If left unchecked those feelings can lead to unwanted thoughts and possibly self harm. A Family Safety Plan is a document parents can create with their child to use when they are struggling or at risk.

In this article we show you how to create a family safety plan. This plan is designed to help you and your child stay safe, communicate clearly, and know what to do when emotions are intense. Always review this information with your child’s mental health professional for additional information unique to your situation.

We suggest that you keep your plan visible and accessible at home. Review it together regularly.

You can use this guide to create your own family safety plan, or download our simple template here.

1. Know the Warning Signs

These are early indicators your child may be struggling or at risk:

Talking about feeling hopeless or wanting to die
Withdrawing from family or friends
Sudden mood change (anger, sadness, irritability)
Giving away possessions
Changes in sleep or appetite
Expressing feelings of being a burden
Other signs specific to your child:_________

2. Identify Coping Strategies

List some things your child can do on their own to manage distress:

Take deep breaths / practice grounding exercises
Listen to music
Write in a journal or draw
Go for a walk
Use relaxation or mindfulness apps
Other ideas that are specific to your child_______

3. People & Places for Support

List trusted people your child can reach out to when feeling unsafe or overwhelmed. Include their name and phone number.

You can even include a sample of what your child can say to these trusted adults so that they feel more comfortable reaching out to them. It can be something as simple as “I’m feeling really stressed out and I need help dealing with it”.

Crisis Contacts should also be listed on your safety plan.

U.S.: Call or text 988 – Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
Emergency: 911
Local crisis center:

If your child is in crisis dial 911 or go directly to the nearest emergency room

5. Removal of Means

Temporarily secure or remove items in your home that could be used for self-harm. Removing access to these items can keep your child from acting out of impulsivity and help them feel a greater sense of safety. This is sample list of items to consider. For a more detailed list see our Home Safety Audit.

Medications locked or removed, both prescription and over the counter
Firearms removed or secured
Sharp objects secured
Dangerous tools locked or removed
Other items specific to your home:________

Always consult your child’s mental health professional for additional instructions unique to your family’s situation.

Learn more about safety in the home during a mental health crisis in our article on conducting a Home Safety Audit

6. Document Steps to Take if a Crisis Occurs

Always tailor these steps to your unique situation and family. Here is a sample to help you get started:

Stay calm. Take a deep breath.
Remove or secure immediate dangers.
Contact a trusted person (parent, guardian, relative, or friend).
Call a crisis line if necessary (988 in the U.S.).
Go to the ER if immediate danger exists.

8. Notes and Reminders

Safety steps are temporary and protective, not punishment.
You are not overreacting, you are taking responsible action.
Your presence, calmness, and attention matter more than perfect words.

Tips for Using Your Family Safety Plan

Keep a printed copy on the fridge or bedroom door.
Keep a digital copy on your phone for quick access.
Review the plan with your child weekly or after any distressing event.
Update as your child’s needs, coping strategies, and support system changes.

Download a Family Safety Plan template here.

Need Next Steps?

Learn How to Talk to Your Child About Suicide: A Parent’s Guide

Find out more about Coping Skills for Kids & Teens

Be prepared if a crisis happens: What Happens at the Emergency Room During a Mental Health Crisis

Learn all the ways we provide Support for Parents

If this article helped you, consider supporting Brighter Path Family Network. As a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, your donation is tax deductible and allows us to continue providing help to families navigating a mental health crisis.

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This article is shared for informational purposes only. It is not to be used in place of medical advice.