Risk and Protective Factors
To prevent suicide we aim to decrease risk factors while increasing protective factors. Learn more about risk and protective factors here.
Risk Factors
A risk factor is something that occurs in someone's life that is associated with a higher likelihood of a negative outcome. Please note that someone who has experienced one or more of these risk factors is not necessarily at risk for suicide.
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Individual Risk Factors
- Previous suicide attempt
- Mental illness
- Physical illness
- Social isolation
- Legal problems
- Financial problems
- Impulsive or aggressive tendencies
- Job problems or job loss
- Substance use disorder
Relationship Risk Factors
- Bullying
- Sexual violence
- ACE's such as abuse or neglect (learn more about ACEs here)
- Relationship problems such as breakup, violence, or loss
Community Risk Factors
- Barriers to healthcare
- Cultural and religious beliefs
- Suicide cluster in the community
Societal Risk Factors
- Stigma associated with mental illness or help seeking
- Easy access to lethal means by people at risk
- Unsafe media portrayls of suicide
Protective Factors
A protective factor is associated with a lower likelihood of a negative outcome. Protective factors may reduce risk of suicidal behavior.
- Effective clinical care for mental, physical, and substance use disorders
- Easy access to clinical interventions and support
- Family and community support
- Support from medical and mental health care professionals
- Problem solving
- Conflict resolution and nonviolent strategies for handling disputes
- Cultural and religious beliefs that discourage suicide
- Trusted adult/s
- Restricted acces to lethal means
- Involvement in hobbies or activites
- Strong peer support system