Bipolar Safety Plan

Written by: [Your Name]

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I. Personal Information

Name:	[Your Name]
Date of Birth:	[Your Date of Birth]
Address:	[Your Address]
Therapist/Counselor:	[Therapist/Counselor Name]
Psychiatrist:	[Psychiatrist Name]

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II. Triggers and Warning Signs

1. Triggers

• Stressful situations at work or home

• Lack of sleep

• Changes in routine or medication

2. Warning Signs

• Racing thoughts and inability to concentrate

• Extreme irritability or agitation

• Changes in sleep patterns (insomnia or hypersomnia)

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III. Coping Strategies

1. Mindfulness Techniques

• Deep breathing exercises

• Progressive muscle relaxation

2. Self-Care Activities

• Engaging in hobbies (painting, gardening)

• Spending time in nature

3. Social Support

• Reaching out to friends or family for support

• Attending support groups or therapy sessions

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IV. Safety Planning

1. Identify Safe Spaces

• Home: Ensure a safe and calm environment

• Friend's house: Have a trusted friend or family member to stay with

2. Remove Access to Lethal Means

• Store medications in a locked cabinet

• Remove sharp objects or firearms from the vicinity

3. Emergency Contacts

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: [Phone Number]

• Crisis Text Line: Text [Text Number] for support

4. Creating a Crisis Kit

• Include calming activities (coloring book, stress ball)

• List of emergency contacts

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V. Professional Support Network

1. Healthcare Provider

• Regular appointments for medication management

• Discussing treatment options and adjustments

2. Therapist/Counselor

• Cognitive-behavioral therapy sessions

• Developing coping skills and strategies

3. Psychiatrist

• Medication evaluation and monitoring

• Adjustments to medication regimen as needed

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VI. Medication Management

1. Prescription Medications

• Lithium: [Dosage and Frequency]

• Lamotrigine: [Dosage and Frequency]

2. Side Effects to Monitor

• Nausea or vomiting

• Dizziness or blurred vision

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VII. Emergency Action Plan

1. Signs of Acute Crisis

• Suicidal thoughts or intent

• Manic or depressive episode beyond control

2. Steps to Take

• Contact emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room

• Inform emergency contacts and healthcare providers

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VIII. Follow-Up and Review

1. Schedule Regular Check-Ins

• Monthly appointments with healthcare provider

• Bi-weekly therapy sessions for support and evaluation

2. Review and Update Plan

• Quarterly review of triggers and warning signs

• Adjustments to coping strategies and safety plan as needed

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