The Importance of a Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP)
September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, a time when communities across the country reflect on the importance of mental health, connection, and support. At Caravelle Counseling and Wellness, here in Louisiana, we believe that prevention begins with preparation. One powerful tool we often encourage is the Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP)—a personalized, practical plan that helps individuals maintain wellness, recognize signs of struggle, and know what steps to take in times of crisis.
What Is a WRAP?
A Wellness Recovery Action Plan is a structured, evidence-based approach developed by Mary Ellen Copeland. It is not just for people in crisis; it’s a resource for anyone who wants to better understand themselves, create a sense of safety, and have clear strategies for maintaining wellness. A WRAP is created by the individual, often with the support of loved ones or a therapist, and it serves as a guide to:
Identify personal wellness tools.
Recognize triggers and early warning signs.
Outline coping strategies that work best.
Clarify supports and resources to turn to in difficult times.
Why Is WRAP Important During Suicide Prevention Month?
Suicidal thoughts often appear during moments of overwhelm, isolation, or hopelessness. In these times, decision-making can feel clouded or even impossible. A WRAP provides clarity when emotions are intense—it’s like a roadmap back to stability. By having a plan written down, individuals can rely on their own wisdom and previous insights, even when their current mindset makes it difficult to see a way forward.
A typical plan includes:
Daily Maintenance Plan: Activities that support wellness every day (like exercise, mindfulness, journaling, or connecting with loved ones).
Triggers: External situations or stressors that might make life harder.
Early Warning Signs: Subtle shifts in mood, energy, or behavior that signal things are changing.
Action Plan: Steps to take when warning signs appear, including coping strategies and supportive contacts.
Crisis Plan: Guidance for others on how to help during a severe episode, including preferred supports, treatment options, and what has or hasn’t worked in the past.
How WRAP Helps Families and Communities
One of the most powerful aspects of WRAP is that it isn’t only for the individual—it helps families, friends, and communities respond with compassion and confidence. When someone shares their WRAP, loved ones know how to best support them, and crises can often be de-escalated more quickly.
At Caravelle Counseling and Wellness, we integrate mindfulness into WRAP development. Mindfulness allows individuals to notice early warning signs with greater awareness and practice self-compassion when challenges arise. When combined with the structure of a WRAP, mindfulness strengthens resilience and empowers people to stay connected to themselves and others.
Suicide prevention is not only about responding in moments of crisis—it’s also about building systems of care, support, and self-understanding before those moments occur. A Wellness Recovery Action Plan provides a roadmap to wellness, giving individuals a greater sense of control and hope.
If you or someone you love is considering creating a WRAP, our team at Caravelle Counseling and Wellness is here to guide and support you. This Suicide Prevention Month, let’s remember that preparation and connection can be lifesaving.