What are Protective Factors?
Protective factors are influences that make it less likely that individuals will develop a mental health problem. They include biological, psychological, or social factors in the individual, family, or community. Protective factors help to lower the risk level of suicide and other self-destructive behaviors. These are strengths that we can develop and enhance for citizenry in our community.
Individual Protective Factors
- Abstinence from alcohol and other drugs
- Help-seeking behavior
- Friends and supportive significant others
- Hope for the future
- Having goals
- Pets/Connectedness to others
- Good problem-solving skills
- Medical compliance and a sense of the importance of health and wellness
Family Protective Factors
- Strong interpersonal bonds, especially with family and adults
- Family cohesion
- Parental presence at key times
- Cultural and religious beliefs that discourage suicide and support self-preservation
- Ability to cope and handle crises
Community Protective Factors
- Reasonably safe, stable environment
- Effective care for mental and physical health and substance use problems
- Availability of counseling or trusted adult in the life of a youth
- Restricted access to firearms or other lethal means
- Opportunities to contribute/participation in school and/or the larger community
This list of risk factors was developed by the National Center for Suicide Prevention Training.