Protective Factors
The following are protective factors associated (by empiral study) with a decreased occurrence of suicidal behavior. However this list is not considered to be prioritized nor exhaustive.
Individual
- Cultural and religious beliefs thatdiscourage suicide and support self preservation
- Support through ongoing health and mental health care relationships
- Coping/problem solving skills
- Resiliency, self esteem, direction, mission, determination, perseverance, optimism, empathy
- Intellectual competence (youth)
- Reasons for living
Peer/Family
- Family cohesion (youth)
- Sense of social support
- Interconnectedness
- Married/Parent
- Access to comprehensive health care
Community
- Access to healthcare and mental health car
- Social support, close relationships, caring adults, participation and bond with school
- Respect for help-seeking behavior
- Skills to recognize and respond to signs of risk
Society
- Urban/Suburban
- Access to health care & mental health care
- Cultural values affirming life
- Media influence
Source: Suicide Prevention Resource Center, Strategic Planning for Suicide Prevention: Core Community Competencies Workshop, Resource Sheet 1-1.
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