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Topic Tuesday // How to build a safety plan with a loved one // 24 Oct. 7pm AEDT

NikNikSenior Contributor25 Sept 2017, 2:55 pm AEST

Topic Tuesday // How to build a safety plan with a loved one // 24 Oct. 7pm AEDT

Hi there,

Tonight will be a community discussion about creating a safety plan with your loved one.

While we always hope that our loved one travels well, often we can constantly worry about them crashing or becoming unwell.

One strategy to alleviate the worry is to work with your loved one to create a safety plan to use in the event they become unwell. In this session we will discuss:

What is a safety plan
Safety plan templates
How to approach the topic with a loved one
What's worked (and not worked) for you

Join us from 7pm AEDT to chat to those who have been there.

To get an email reminder on the night, hit the 'Like' button below.

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In response to: Topic Tuesday // How to build a safety plan with a loved one // 24 Oct. 7pm AEDT

KF1969Casual Contributor24 Oct 2017, 7:31 pm AEDT

Re: Topic Tuesday // How to build a safety plan with a loved one // 24 Oct. 7pm AEDT

A safety plan is when the person is in a crisis and they cannot voice their wishes.

In response to: Topic Tuesday // How to build a safety plan with a loved one // 24 Oct. 7pm AEDT

NikNikSenior Contributor24 Oct 2017, 7:34 pm AEDT

Re: Topic Tuesday // How to build a safety plan with a loved one // 24 Oct. 7pm AEDT

I guess the more pressing question that people want to know more about is what is in a safety plan.

There are a few temaples, but a lot follow this, which is from SuicideLine:

1. Information about when to use the plan. List the kinds of situations, thoughts, feelings or other warning signs that may lead to you feeling suicidal.

2. A list of things that you can do that help you feel calm and comforted. Think of soothing, calming activities that you can employ when you’re feeling suicidal.

3. A list of all your reasons for living. It can be helpful to refer to this list when you’re feeling suicidal, as you can lose focus on the positive aspects of your life and concentrate only on the pain you’re experiencing. Your list can remind you of these positives you may have forgotten.

4. People you can talk to when you’re feeling suicidal. Include their names and contact details, and make sure you have back ups.

5. Professionals who you can talk to if you need to, again including their names and up-to-date contact details.

6. A plan of how you can make your environment safe. Think about items you might be likely to use to hurt yourself, and detail how you can remove or secure them. Your plan may also include avoiding things you know make you feel worse.

7. Emergency contact details that you can use if you are still feeling unsafe. List the name and address of your nearest emergency department or crisis helpline.

8. Make a commitment to your safety plan. This means promising yourself that you will implement your plan if you need to. The commitment could also involve promising (out loud) to a family member, friend or professional that you will follow your plan.

Beyondblue have a helpful video aimed at the individual who is looking to create the safety plans

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=05harqz8h74

Has anyone had experience with a safety plan before (for you or for a loved one)? What did it contain (you don’t have to be specific, but high level categories if you’re comfortable with that), was it helpful?

In response to: Topic Tuesday // How to build a safety plan with a loved one // 24 Oct. 7pm AEDT

KF1969Casual Contributor24 Oct 2017, 7:35 pm AEDT

Re: Topic Tuesday // How to build a safety plan with a loved one // 24 Oct. 7pm AEDT

I like that, because the carer and the person with a mental health issue will be very stressed, so they won't be thinking clearly - so yes create in advance.