Protective Factors

Be AWARE of Factors that Protect Against Suicide

• Effective clinical care for those with mental, physical, and substance abuse issues.
• Easy access to a variety of clinical interventions and support for help-seeking.
• Strong ties to family and community.
• Ongoing relationships with medical and mental health care providers.
• Having problem solving and conflict resolution skills and understanding nonviolent ways of resolving disputes.
• Religious and cultural beliefs that discourage suicide and support self-preservation instincts.

 (U.S. Public Health Service, 1999)