My Hope Kit
A fillable hope kit worksheet for collecting reasons to keep going, reminders of being cared for, soothing items and helpful words, alongside Canadian crisis resources.
1-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · Crisis coping · Safety
- Approach / concern
- Universal
- Technique
- Crisis coping · Safety
- Format
- Fillable PDF, 1 page (US Letter / A4)
- Access
- Pro and Advanced plans (3-day free trial)
- For
- Licensed clinicians to use with clients
- Updated
- October 2026
Key facts
What is the My Hope Kit?
A hope kit (or hope box) is a personalized collection of items that remind a person of reasons for living and help them cope during crises. It is a common component of cognitive therapy for suicide prevention and has been adapted into digital apps.
Why it works
A randomized trial of the Virtual Hope Box app found improved ability to cope with unpleasant emotions and thoughts in veterans at risk of suicide (Bush et al., 2017). Hope kits are part of cognitive therapy approaches for suicidal patients (Wenzel et al., 2009).
When to use it
- Clients with suicidal thoughts (with a safety plan)
- After a crisis or hospitalization
- Depression with hopelessness
- Teens and adults building coping resources
How to use it in session
- Complete alongside a safety plan and risk assessment.
- Brainstorm items in each category.
- Decide on a physical or digital format.
- Fill it when feeling okay.
- Review and add to it regularly.
Clinician tips
- Phone-based kits are always within reach.
- Involve trusted people in adding messages.
- A hope kit supplements, not replaces, crisis care.
Worked example
Sharing with clients
Members can download the PDF to print or email, or copy a private client link from the download box. Your client opens the link and downloads the worksheet on any device. No client account is needed, and nothing your client writes is stored on TherapyAid.
Frequently asked questions
Is a hope kit enough on its own?
No. It works best alongside a safety plan and professional support.
Can I make a digital hope kit?
Yes. A folder of photos, videos and messages on your phone works well.
References
Bush, N. E., Smolenski, D. J., Denneson, L. M., Williams, H. B., Thomas, E. K., & Dobscha, S. K. (2017). A Virtual Hope Box: Randomized controlled trial of a smartphone app for emotional regulation and coping with distress. Psychiatric Services, 68(4), 330-336.
Wenzel, A., Brown, G. K., & Beck, A. T. (2009). Cognitive therapy for suicidal patients: Scientific and clinical applications. American Psychological Association.
This worksheet is an educational tool for use by, or under the guidance of, a licensed or registered mental-health professional. It is not a diagnostic instrument or a substitute for clinical judgement. If a client is in crisis in Canada, call or text 9-8-8 or call 9-1-1.
