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- Protective Factors
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Protective Factors for Suicide
Protective factors create a buffer between individuals and suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Although they haven’t been studied as extensively as risk factors, identifying, understanding and promoting protective factors is just as important as minimizing risks when it comes to preventing suicide.
Examples of protective factors can include:
- Effective clinical care for mental health, physical health, and substance abuse disorders
- Easy access to a variety of solutions and support
- Family and community support
- Skills in problem-solving, conflict resolution, and nonviolent dispute resolution
- Cultural and religious beliefs that discourage suicide and support self-preservation