Protective Factors for Suicide
Factors that Reduce the Likelihood of Suicide
Some people have a greater risk for suicidal behavior than others. There are characteristics within an individual and within groups that create a greater potential for suicide to occur. These can include a family history of suicide or the lack of a social support network. It's important to understand the risk factors associated with suicide and to find ways to reduce them.
Protective factors work to counterbalance a person's risk and makes him or her less likely to engage in suicidal behavior. These factors can include easy access to support -- in other words, getting to a doctor or psychologist easily and quickly.
Social and Cultural Risk Factors
Some ethnic groups and races are at higher risk. According to the National Institutes of Mental Health, Non-Hispanic Whites and Native Americans had the highest rates of suicide in 2004, while Non-Hispanic African Americans, Asian and Pacific Islanders, and Hispanics had lower rates. Cultural and social risks include:
- Lack of social support and sense of isolation
- Stigma associated with seeking help for one's (mental or emotional) problems
- Barriers to accessing health care, especially mental health and substance abuse treatment
- Certain cultural and religious beliefs
- Influence of others who have died by suicide
Biological and Psychological Risk Factors
A history of mental health disorders, particularly depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, place an individual at a higher risk for suicidal behavior. Other risks include:
- Alcohol and other substance use disorders
- Impulsive and/or aggressive tendencies
- History of trauma or abuse
- Family history of suicide
- Major physical illnesses or chronic pain
- Previous suicide attempt
Environmental Risk Factors
A job loss or financial loss can set off a sequence of emotional events that put an individual at greater risk for suicide. Other environmental risks include:
- Relational or social loss, such as a breakup with a boyfriend or girlfriend
- Easy access to lethal means, such as guns and firearms. However, this can also include poisons and prescription medications
- Local clusters of copycat suicides
Protective Factors for Suicide
The following protective factors have been identified by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services:
- Effective clinical care for mental, physical and substance use disorders
- Easy access to a variety of clinical interventions and support for seeking help
- Restricted access to highly lethal means of suicide
- Strong connections to family
- Community support
- Support through ongoing medical and mental health care relationships
- Skills in problem solving, conflict resolution and nonviolent handling of disputes
- Cultural and religious beliefs that discourage suicide and support self preservation
Prevention programs are effective for all ages and ethnic groups. To learn more about our training services, visit our Preventing Suicide section.
Sources: National Institutes of Mental Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
