Printable PDF Download: Self-Harm Flowchart | A Decision Tree for Managing Urges

You'll receive this digital product instantly after purchase. See licensing terms for allowed uses. 

When someone is experiencing urges to self-harm, it can be really difficult to think clearly. Psychological pain can cause executive function (that is, the set of complex brain processes that help us with goal-directed decision-making) to go offline. It can be helpful to have a plan in place for when these times come.  

That’s why I created this flowchart (aka a decision tree). This resource is not meant to be an endpoint or a one-size-fits-all; it’s a starting point.

This download bundle includes two images: 

1. Handling self-harm urges flowchart, ending with instructions to contact crisis resources.
2. Handling self-harm urges flowchart, ending with harm reduction principles.

Suggested Uses: Mental health professionals may find this tool especially helpful for working with clients to develop a plan for coping with self-harm urges.

Learn More: For more information on this topic, including how to use this resource as a conversation starter or creative prompt, read the article: A Flowchart Decision Tree for Coping with Self-Harm Urges. This product is available as a free pdf for Lindsay’s Patreon members.

License Types: 

• A personal use license allows use by a single individual for personal use. This license excludes any form of professional work including coaching, counseling, or education.
• A single professional license is for one practitioner to use with their direct clients.
• A shared professional use license covers use by up to six practitioners within the same organization to use with their direct clients. Read a full explanation of licensing options here.