When big emotions feel overwhelming or unsafe, having a clear plan can make all the difference. The Safety Plan tool gives young people practical steps to recognize early signs of distress, build coping strategies, and connect with safe support when they need it most. This tool helps them feel prepared, supported, and empowered to take care of themselves.
This poster guides students step-by-step to identify what triggers them, what helps them feel better, who they can reach out to, and how they can keep their environment safer. It’s a simple and empowering resource that prepares students to support themselves before a crisis hits.
How to Use the Safety Plan Tool
This tool can be filled out during a calm moment — ideally with a coach, counselor, teacher, or trusted adult. Guide students gently through each section:
- I know I’m triggered when…
Help students recognize early warning signs.
Prompts: “What do you notice in your body?” “What thoughts show up?” "How does your behavior change?" - Things that help me when I feel this way…
Explore coping strategies that have worked before.
Examples: breathing exercises, stepping outside, music, texting a friend, grounding tools. - Good ways to distract myself…
Collaborate on safe options for redirecting attention.
Examples: doodling, stretching, playing a game, holding a fidget, watching a favorite TV show. - Safe people I can reach out to…
Encourage naming trusted supporters with phone numbers.
Friends, family, school staff, or coaches. - Other ways to get help…
Remind students of additional support resources, including calling 988 - The suicide & crisis lifeline. - Ways to keep my space safe…
Brainstorm ways to reduce risk in their environment.
Example: removing harmful items, moving into a shared space, turning on lights.
✔ Tip: Review the Safety Plan together after completing it and help the student store it somewhere accessible — a notebook, a backpack, or taped inside a locker.
Why This Tool Matters
The Safety Plan Tool helps students develop essential life skills, including:
Self-awareness — noticing early triggers and emotional patternsEmotional regulation — identifying strategies that help them copeProblem-solving — choosing helpful actions in tough momentsConfidence — knowing what to do when things feel out of controlHelp-seeking behavior — recognizing when and how to reach out
With a plan in place, students feel more prepared, grounded, and safe.
Download the Poster & Support Your Students
Help students feel confident managing tough emotions — before they escalate.
Download the Safety Plan Tool poster today and start creating a personalized plan with the young people you support. It’s a resource they can return to anytime they need a reminder that they can get through difficult moments. 💛
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