Template only — not medical advice. Always review with a licensed healthcare professional before distributing.
Want to customize this handout for your clinic?
Sign in free to edit, add your clinic branding, and save your own version.
Home Safety After Psychiatric Crisis: Preventing Self-Harm Post-Care
Summary
After experiencing a psychiatric crisis, it's essential to focus on safety at home to reduce the risk of self-harm or suicidal thoughts. Safety planning involves removing potential risks and establishing a support network to help you navigate this challenging time. This guide provides practical steps to create a safer environment and highlights when to seek further help.
What Is This & Why It Matters
This handout is designed to help you understand the importance of home safety following a psychiatric crisis. By taking proactive steps, you can minimize the risk of self-harm and ensure a supportive environment for recovery. Safety planning is not just about removing immediate dangers but also about creating a network of care and setting up regular check-ins with loved ones or professionals.
What You Should Do
- Secure all medications in a locked cabinet or box.
- Remove sharp objects like knives, scissors, or razors from easy access.
- Ask a trusted friend or family member to temporarily store any firearms away from your home.
- Establish daily routines that include healthy meals, exercise, and relaxation techniques.
- Keep emergency contact numbers visible and easily accessible.
- Set up weekly check-ins with a mental health professional or support group.
- Create a list of coping strategies that work for you, such as deep breathing or listening to music.
- Identify supportive friends or family members who can be contacted in moments of distress.
What You Should NOT Do
- Do not keep medications in places that are easily accessible without supervision.
- Avoid isolating yourself; stay connected with your support network.
- Refrain from consuming alcohol or drugs that can impair judgment.
- Do not ignore feelings of distress; reach out for help when needed.
- Avoid making major life decisions during this vulnerable time.
Symptoms: Normal vs Warning Signs
Normal (Don't Worry)
- Feeling tired or having low energy levels as you recover.
- Experiencing changes in appetite or sleep patterns.
- Having occasional moments of sadness or anxiety.
- Feeling overwhelmed by daily tasks but gradually improving.
Call Your Doctor If...
- Continuous thoughts of self-harm or suicide that don't go away.
- Increased agitation or inability to calm down despite efforts.
- Withdrawal from friends, family, and activities you once enjoyed.
- Sudden mood changes that are extreme and concerning.
- Hearing voices that are not real or seeing things that aren't there.
- Accessing weapons or harmful substances despite planning.
FAQ
What is safety planning?
Safety planning involves creating strategies to reduce self-harm risks by removing dangerous items and building a support network.
Why should I lock away medications?
Locking away medications prevents accidental overdoses and reduces the risk of intentional harm.
Who should I include in my support network?
Include trusted friends, family members, and mental health professionals who understand your needs.
How often should I check in with my healthcare provider?
Weekly check-ins are recommended to monitor your progress and address any concerns.
What should I do if I feel overwhelmed?
Reach out to someone in your support network or use a coping strategy like deep breathing exercises.
When is it necessary to call my doctor?
Contact your doctor if you experience persistent thoughts of self-harm, extreme mood changes, or loss of reality.