Risk and Protective Factors
Suicide is a complex phenomenon and rarely occurs as the result of a single event. Research has demonstrated that there are a number risk factors and protective factors. Risk factors increase the probability of suicidal behaviour, while protective factors tend to offset that risk.
What are some risk factors for suicide?
There is no single cause of suicidal behaviour and each person’s situation is unique. However, research has revealed a number of common risk factors that may increase the likelihood of someone taking their life:
- Individual factors - such as being male, being Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, experiencing physical health problems and stressful life events such as bereavement or relationship breakdown. Young gay or lesbian people may also have an increased risk of suicidal behaviour;
- Mental illness - such as depression, substance abuse, psychotic disorders and a history of previous suicide attempts;
- Family-related factors - such as family breakdown, family conflict, abuse or family history of suicide;
- Social factors - such as socio-economic disadvantage, unemployment, school disengagement, incarceration, cultural differences and social and geographical isolation (especially remote communities);
- Environmental factors - such as access to methods of suicide and exposure to suicide methods via the media or peers.
People who are more at risk of suicide include:
- people who have previously attempted suicide;
- people with mental disorders;
- people with alcohol or drug abuse problems;
- males (particularly those aged 25-45 years);
- young Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander males;
- people who are in custody;
- people in remote communities;
- people bereaved by suicide.
Are there protective factors for suicide?
Similar to risk factors, there are no clear universal protective factors that may decrease the likelihood of a person taking their life. Some known factors include:
- being connected or belonging to a family, school or other community, such as a sporting or recreation group;
- having at least one significant person to relate to and bond with (whether that is a family member, a friend or other person);
- having personal skills and resilience to deal with difficult situations;
- spirituality and beliefs;
- economic security;
- good physical as well as mental health;
- receiving effective treatment for mental illness and emotional problems.
* NEW * Guidelines for helping someone who is suicidal
* NEW * Guidelines for helping an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person who is at risk of suicide
Provided by the Mental Health First Aid Program www.mhfa.com.au
