How to Increase Safety at Home for a Suicidal or Self-Harming Teen
If your teen has expressed suicidal thoughts or is engaging in self-harm, it can feel terrifying and overwhelming. You may find yourself walking on eggshells, afraid to say the wrong thing or unsure how to make your home safe.
First, take a deep breath. You don’t have to have all the answers — you just need to take the next right step. Small, calm, intentional actions can help keep your teen safe and supported while professional help is put in place.
1. Start With Open, Calm Communication
It’s natural to feel scared, but try not to respond with panic or anger. Instead of demanding explanations, focus on staying connected.
Try saying:
“I love you, and I’m here to help you stay safe.”
“You don’t have to go through this alone. We’ll figure this out together.”
Let your teen know that they can talk to you without fear of punishment or shame. That safety and trust are your most powerful tools.
2. Limit Access to Means of Harm
Creating a physically safe environment is one of the most important steps you can take. This includes:
Medications: Lock up all prescriptions and over-the-counter medications, including pain relievers and sleep aids.
Sharp Objects: Secure or limit access to razors, knives, scissors, and pencil sharpeners.
Firearms: If firearms are in the home, remove them entirely or store them unloaded in a locked safe with ammunition stored separately.
Ropes/Cords: Consider discreetly securing items like cords, belts, or other ligatures if risk is high.
Safety planning isn’t about punishment — it’s about removing temptation during moments of crisis when impulse control may be low.
3. Create a Safety Plan Together
Sit down with your teen (and their therapist, if possible) to create a written safety plan. This plan should include:
Warning signs: What thoughts, feelings, or situations increase distress
Coping skills: Activities or techniques that help them calm down
Safe people: Who they can reach out to (friends, family, therapist, hotline)
Emergency steps: What to do if they feel unsafe (calling 988, going to ER, etc.)
Keep a copy in a visible place — like a bedroom, fridge, or phone notes app.
4. Build a Calming Environment
Help your teen create a small space at home that feels safe and grounding.
This could include:
Soft lighting, cozy blankets, or comforting scents
Access to journaling materials or art supplies
Music that helps them regulate emotions
These small details remind them that comfort and safety are possible, even during hard moments.
5. Stay Involved in Professional Support
You don’t have to handle this alone — and you shouldn’t. Ongoing therapy is essential for both your teen and your family system.
At Fantasia Therapy Services PLLC, we help teens develop healthy coping tools, while supporting parents in learning how to respond without fear or shame.
Regular communication with your teen’s therapist, psychiatrist, or school counselor ensures everyone is on the same page in supporting safety.
6. Don’t Forget Your Own Support
Caring for a struggling teen can be emotionally draining. Seek out your own therapist, parent support group, or trusted friend. The more grounded you are, the more stability your teen will feel from you.
If a Crisis Happens
If your teen expresses suicidal thoughts or you believe they’re in immediate danger:
Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline)
Go to the nearest emergency room
Do not leave them alone until you know they are safe
The Bottom Line
You can’t take away all of your teen’s pain — but you can create safety, connection, and hope right where you are. Every small step matters.
Fantasia Therapy Services PLLC — where healing feels safe.
In-person & telehealth therapy for teens + families