Contracting for safety is an effective and widely used strategy in the field of mental health. It refers to a verbal or written agreement between a therapist and a client that aims to enhance safety and minimize the risk of self-harm or suicide. This article will explain in detail what it means to contract for safety, why it`s important, and how it can be implemented.
What Does It Mean to Contract for Safety?
Contracting for safety involves negotiating a safety plan between the therapist and the client, often in a collaborative and non-judgmental manner. The client is typically asked to agree to specific actions or behaviors that will help to prevent self-harm or suicide, and the therapist will provide support and resources to help the client maintain their commitment to the agreed-upon plan.
The agreement may be verbal or written and will typically include specific actions that the client will take in the event of an increasing risk of self-harm or suicide. The safety plan may also include specific strategies that the client can use to decrease their stress levels, such as engaging in deep breathing exercises, going for a walk, or calling a trusted friend or family member.
Why Is Contracting for Safety Important?
Contracting for safety is an important strategy for mental health professionals to use because it can help prevent self-harm and suicide in clients who are at risk. Suicide is a leading cause of death worldwide, and mental health professionals have a responsibility to do everything possible to prevent it.
In addition, contracting for safety can help clients who are struggling with difficult emotions and thoughts feel more supported and less alone. When the therapist and client are working together to develop a safety plan, the client knows that someone cares and is willing to help them through difficult times.
How Can Contracting for Safety Be Implemented?
There are several steps that mental health professionals can take to implement contracting for safety effectively:
1. Assess the client`s current level of risk: Before creating a safety plan, the therapist needs to assess the client`s current level of risk for self-harm or suicide. This may involve asking the client about their thoughts and feelings, as well as any past suicide attempts.
2. Collaborate with the client: The safety plan should be a collaborative effort between the therapist and the client. The client should have input into the plan and be given the opportunity to express their needs and concerns.
3. Identify triggers and warning signs: The safety plan should include a list of triggers and warning signs that may indicate an increased risk of self-harm or suicide. The client should be instructed to alert the therapist if any of these warning signs occur.
4. Develop an action plan: The safety plan should include specific actions that the client will take in the event of an increasing risk of self-harm or suicide. These actions may include calling a crisis hotline, visiting the emergency room, or contacting a trusted friend or family member.
5. Follow up regularly: The safety plan should be reviewed and updated regularly to ensure that it is still relevant and effective. The therapist should follow up with the client regularly to check in on their progress and make any necessary adjustments to the plan.
Conclusion
Contracting for safety is a valuable strategy for mental health professionals to use with clients who are at risk of self-harm or suicide. By developing a collaborative safety plan, mental health professionals can help clients feel supported and less alone, while also working to reduce the risk of suicide. By following these steps, mental health professionals can effectively implement contracting for safety and prevent self-harm and suicide in their clients.