Protective Factors
Certain factors and circumstances in a person’s life are thought to provide some protection against suicide and suicidal behaviours.
A time of change
The period of adolescence can be an exciting time as you emerge from the shadow of parents or guardians to find a new sense of independence and freedom. It can also be a time of uncertainty –and with good reason –your brain is changing and you may find yourself and your peers having periods of moodiness, and less able to control your emotions. Your body is also going through a lot of change; in fact during these years you are likely to grow 15 percent in both height and weight.
Protective factors
Fortunately, most of us emerge from these years of uncertainty with few or no permanent scars or thoughts of suicide. Research has shown that there are a number of factors that can ease your transition into adolescence and help to protect and strengthen you during this developmental stage.
External factors
- Family cohesion, e.g., involvement, shared interests and emotional support.
- Good relationships with other youth and adults.
- Academic achievement.
- Stable environment.
- Social integration and opportunities to participate in activities.
- Responsibilities for other people or pets.
- Adequate care for substance use, physical and mental disorders.
- Lack of access to means for suicidal behaviour.
- Connection to a religious community.
- Internal Factors.
Internal factors
- Sense of belonging.
- Sociability, i.e., ability to be a friend.
- Love of learning.
- Perceived connectedness to school.
- Sense of worth and self-confidence.
- Self-motivation.
- Help-seeking and advice-seeking behaviour.
- Service, i.e., gives of self in service to others or a cause.
- Life skills, e.g., good decision-making, assertiveness, impulse control, coping skills, flexibility and perseverance.
How can you build and enhance your protective factors?
1. Build healthy connections with other people
Research in the field of youth development and resiliency shows that building stronger connections with family, school, other adults and peers, and getting involved in community activities, are some of the most important ways to develop protective factors in your life. Work with friends or seek advice from a trusted adult to find volunteer, work and recreation opportunities in the community.
2. Take some time to identify your strengths. You can do this on your own or seek some input from friends or a trusted adult. Things to think about include:
- In previous difficult situations, how did you cope, what did you do?
- Who do you talk to when experiencing stress? How do they help? Can they help you now and in the future? Who else can help?
- Can you use what you have learned in other situations to help you now and in the future?
3. Build yourself a network of support.
Develop or strengthen your relationship with your parents, teachers, coaches, friends. Find a mentor who encourages you to excel, supports you in positive challenges and generally provides welcome direction in your preferred pursuits. Positive influences in your life will demonstrate attitudes and messages of optimism, strength and overcoming difficulties.