A regular column by Dr Jan Orman to help you get to know about the reliable evidence-based Australian online resources for mental health care.
Most of us have become familiar with the concept of suicide safety planning.
It is an evidence-based strategy to help people move through periods of suicidal thinking and fight suicidal impulses.
Safety planning is designed to be done collaboratively with a health practitioner but there are downsides to doing a plan on a piece of paper. Paper plans can get lost and tattered and are not protected from prying eyes.
Beyond Blue has sponsored the development of the Beyond Now App which provides a smart phone-based template for safety planning. It guides people step-by-step through the safety planning process, making helpful suggestions along the way. The plan made on the app can also be edited and shared.
Putting together a safety plan with someone is both a learning exercise for you and a therapeutic intervention.
You can find out more about the safety planning and the app on the Beyond Blue website.
For more information and training go to blackdoginstitute.org.au/emhprac
Disclaimer: This article was provided by Black Dog Institute. While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate, North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network does not warrant or represent the accuracy, currency and completeness of any information or material included within.
