What is the purpose of safety planning in risk assessment for NSSI?

• A. Outline steps to reduce immediate risk and identify supports
• B. Increase exposure to risk
• C. Delay intervention
• D. Assign blame

Answer: (A)

Safety planning in risk assessment for NSSI centers on creating a concrete, collaborative plan to reduce harm in moments of crisis. It provides a practical sequence of steps the adolescent can follow when urges spike: pause, use coping strategies (like grounding or breathing techniques), reach out to a trusted person or clinician, and create a safer environment by removing access to tools that could be used for NSSI. It also includes clear instructions on who to contact, what to say, and when to seek urgent help. This plan helps the young person feel more in control, reduces impulsivity, and ensures there are supports ready to intervene if risk escalates.

Other options miss the mark because they do not actively reduce imminent danger or connect the adolescent with support. Increasing exposure to risk, delaying intervention, or assigning blame do not provide a constructive path for safety or help during a crisis.