1Warning signs
Thoughts, images, moods, situations, or behaviors that signal a crisis may be building — in the client's own words.
2Internal coping strategies
Things the client can do alone to take their mind off problems — ask "what has helped even a little before?"
3People and places that provide distraction
Social settings and people that shift attention — connection without needing to talk about the crisis.
4People I can ask for help
People the client can tell they're in crisis. Confirm the client is actually willing to contact each one.
5Professionals and agencies I can contact
Clinician contact, crisis lines, nearest emergency department.
6Making my environment safer
The means-restriction step — collaborative, specific, and revisited. Who can hold medications, firearms, keys? What's the plan for each?
7What makes life worth living
The Stanley-Brown anchor question — reasons for living, in the client's words, where they can see them.