{"id":7878,"date":"2025-05-06T14:30:00","date_gmt":"2025-05-06T14:30:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/itsveterans.com\/?p=7878"},"modified":"2025-05-06T14:30:00","modified_gmt":"2025-05-06T14:30:00","slug":"suicide-prevention-resource-of-the-month-safety-plan-app","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/itsveterans.com\/?p=7878","title":{"rendered":"Suicide prevention resource of the month: Safety plan app"},"content":{"rendered":"

Originally published:<\/strong> 2025-05-06T14:30:00+00:00. Historical source article: benefits, rules, amounts and deadlines may have changed. Check the official source for current information.<\/p>\n

Having a plan can make a big difference in how your day goes. It doesn\u2019t have to be complicated\u2014sometimes it\u2019s as simple as \u201cget up, take a shower, grab some breakfast.\u201d Having structure in your day can provide direction and help you know what to expect.<\/p>\n

For Veterans who may be struggling with thoughts of suicide, having a safety plan is critical for addressing a crisis. That\u2019s why VA worked with Veterans and health care providers to create an app<\/a> to help you easily build your own safety plan with a mental health provider and easily access it at any time.<\/p>\n

The app guides you through the process step by step, making it easier to create a plan that works for you. For extra encouragement, you can tap a sun icon to read hopeful messages from other Veterans who\u2019ve faced similar experiences. These messages serve as powerful reminders that even though you may be facing life challenges, you don\u2019t have to face them alone.<\/p>\n

What can I expect when I download the app?<\/h2>\n

When you first open the app, you\u2019ll see quick tips on getting started and information about privacy. No identifying information is shared and no account is required.<\/p>\n

The main screen includes sections to create your safety plan and lists \u2018Reasons to Live.\u2019 In the upper right, you\u2019ll see the sun icon. At the bottom, a \u2018Get Support\u2019 button gives you quick access to call 911 and the Veterans Crisis Line.<\/p>\n

Creating your Safety Plan<\/h2>\n

The main goal of the app is to help you develop your safety plan. To do that, you\u2019ll complete six steps with guidance from the app along the way:<\/p>\n