What does "safety planning" involve in AOD treatment?

In the context of Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) treatment, safety planning is a critical component that focuses on developing proactive strategies to ensure the client's well-being and to mitigate the risk of relapse or harmful situations. This involves identifying high-risk scenarios, establishing coping mechanisms, and creating a clear, individualized plan for clients to follow when faced with triggers or crises.

Safety planning is highly personalized and can include measures like identifying support people or resources that can be contacted in times of need, setting strategies for avoiding or managing situations that may lead to substance use, and outlining steps to take when feeling overwhelmed or in danger. It emphasizes empowerment and encourages clients to think ahead about potential challenges and how they will deal with them effectively.

While creating a schedule for therapy sessions, listing medications, or establishing a financial budget for treatment are important administrative and logistical aspects of care, they do not encompass the comprehensive protective approach that safety planning entails.