Question

Which strategy can a person use to cope with suicidal thoughts on his or her own?

developing a safety plan
isolating himself or herself from people
limiting friendships with people
reading a book when feeling isolated

Answer 1

Developing a safety plan.

Why: a safety plan is an evidence-based, practical tool a person can use when suicidal thoughts occur. It helps organize steps to reduce risk and get support quickly.

What a simple safety plan includes:
- Warning signs that a crisis is starting (thoughts, feelings, situations).
- Internal coping strategies you can do alone (deep breathing, grounding, short activities or distractions).
- People and social settings that can provide immediate support (friends, family, neighbors) and how to contact them.
- Professional and crisis contacts (therapist, doctor, crisis line).
- Ways to make your environment safer (remove or lock up firearms, reduce access to medications or other means).
- Steps for when the plan isn’t enough (go to the ER or call emergency services).

If you are in immediate danger or think you might act on suicidal thoughts, contact emergency services or a crisis line right away (in the U.S. call 988). If you’re elsewhere, use your local emergency number or local suicide prevention resources. You don’t have to handle this alone — reach out to trusted people and professionals.