What Does Contract for Safety Mean

Contract for Safety: What It Means and How It Works

The term “Contract for Safety” is commonly used in the mental health field and refers to an agreement between a patient and their healthcare provider designed to prevent harm to the patient. It is a tool used to address suicidal or self-harming behavior and is intended to help patients manage their symptoms and maintain their safety.

A Contract for Safety typically involves agreement on several points, including:

1. The patient agrees to refrain from engaging in any suicidal or self-injurious behavior.

2. The patient agrees to alert their healthcare provider if they have suicidal thoughts or if their symptoms worsen.

3. The healthcare provider agrees to provide support and resources to the patient if they experience suicidal or self-injurious thoughts or behaviors.

4. The healthcare provider may also agree to follow up with the patient regularly to ensure their safety and progress.

The purpose of a Contract for Safety is to promote collaboration between the patient and healthcare provider, and to increase the patient`s sense of control and responsibility for their own safety. It is not a legally binding contract, but rather a tool to help patients manage their symptoms and stay safe.

While some healthcare providers may find a Contract for Safety to be a helpful tool, others may be hesitant to use it. Critics argue that it places an undue burden on the patient and can create a sense of mistrust between the patient and their healthcare provider. They also note that it may not be effective in preventing suicidal or self-injurious behavior.

However, many mental health professionals believe that a Contract for Safety can be an effective tool when used appropriately. It can help patients feel more empowered and in control of their own safety, and can also provide a framework for ongoing communication and support.

If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal or self-injurious thoughts or behaviors, it is important to seek help from a qualified mental health professional. A Contract for Safety may be one tool that can help promote safety and recovery, but it is not a substitute for comprehensive treatment and support.