Staying Well: Depression Relapse Prevention Plan
A staying-well plan listing depression triggers, early warning signs, protective routines, action steps, support contacts and a message to a future self.
1-page fillable PDF · US Letter (prints on A4) · CBT · MBCT
- Approach / concern
- Depression
- Technique
- CBT · MBCT
- 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 Staying Well: Depression Relapse Prevention Plan?
Relapse prevention planning helps people who have recovered from depression identify their individual relapse signature and prepare responses. It’s a standard component of CBT endings and mindfulness-based cognitive therapy.
Why it works
Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy includes developing relapse prevention action plans (Segal et al., 2013). An individual patient data meta-analysis found MBCT reduces risk of depressive relapse (Kuyken et al., 2016).
When to use it
- End of therapy for depression
- Recurrent depression
- Seasonal patterns
- Maintenance and booster sessions
How to use it in session
- Review past episodes.
- List triggers and early signs.
- Identify protective factors.
- Write concrete action steps.
- Share with a trusted person.
Clinician tips
- Include subtle signs (e.g. cancelling plans).
- Ask family what they notice.
- Include crisis resources such as 9-8-8.
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
What is a relapse signature?
Your personal pattern of early signs that depression may be returning.
When should I seek help?
If warning signs persist despite your plan, or if you have thoughts of suicide, contact a professional or call or text 9-8-8.
References
Segal, Z. V., Williams, J. M. G., & Teasdale, J. D. (2013). Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy for depression (2nd ed.). Guilford Press.
Kuyken, W., Warren, F. C., Taylor, R. S., Whalley, B., Crane, C., Bondolfi, G., et al. (2016). Efficacy of mindfulness-based cognitive therapy in prevention of depressive relapse: An individual patient data meta-analysis from randomized trials. JAMA Psychiatry, 73(6), 565-574.
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.
