Suicide Prevention Strategies & Protective Factors

As of 2022, suicide ranks among the top nine causes of death for people aged 10-64[1]. This worrisome statistic solidifies suicide as a major public health concern, highlighting the need for suicide prevention strategies and mental health support. If someone you know struggles with suicidal thoughts, understanding how to help can save a life. This article identifies suicide prevention resources and provides tips on how to intervene in cases of potential suicide.
If you or someone you love is in crisis and either considering or planning suicide, please visit 988lifeline.org or call 988 immediately, or text TALK to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741. |
Key Takeaways
- Some of the best ways to support a loved one experiencing suicidal thoughts are to actively listen, connect them with resources, and be present.
- Effective mental healthcare and strong connections with friends and family can protect against suicidal ideation
- There are plenty of resources online both for those experiencing suicidal thoughts and those supporting loved ones
What Can I Do to Support a Loved One Experiencing Suicidal Thoughts?
You can support a loved one experiencing suicidal thoughts by being attentive. It isn’t always easy knowing the right thing to say or do. However, people in crisis situations often want reassurance that they aren’t alone, help is available, and that they’re being heard or understood. Follow these steps to support your loved one:
- Actively listen: Give them a safe space to express their thoughts. Ask if they have had thoughts of suicide, and offer to help them find new hobbies, identify goals to work toward, and reach out to supportive friends or family.
- Be present: Ensure your loved one isn’t alone during a crisis. Stay with them in person or speak to them on the phone until the moment passes or they access professional help.
- Ensure safety: Reduce your family member’s risk of self-harm by removing lethal items from their home. This can be difficult and may spark conflict, but it can keep them safe.
- Help them connect with resources: Recommend support services, including suicide hotlines, online resources, and professional mental health treatment. You can also help your loved one connect with friends, family members, or spiritual advisors to create a comprehensive support network.
- Conduct follow-ups: Stay in touch after a crisis to ensure your family member feels valued. This can be a phone call, text, or an in-person visit.
Erin L George, MA-MFT, says it’s important to remember that when you’re supporting someone experiencing suicidal ideation, you need to take care of yourself, too.
It can be exhausting to try to help someone experiencing a mental health crisis. Identifying a larger support team like other family members is a good way to ensure you’re rested and at your best for the person you’re trying to help. In taking care of yourself, you’ll be better prepared to help and reduce the risk of caregiver burnout.
Erin L George, MA-MFT
If you’re concerned about a loved one having suicidal thoughts and they’ve become less communicative, it’s important to watch for warning signs. You may notice an increase in substance use, a change in sleep habits, withdrawal from past hobbies or family and friends, or unusual aggression[2].
In these cases, be proactive. Let them know that you’re there for them, and gently broach the subject of mental health treatment. If they seem reluctant or unwilling, it may be helpful to gather close friends and family for an intervention. And in extreme cases, you could explore a mental health hold[3].
Protective Factors Against Suicide
Protective factors are attributes or characteristics that reduce a person’s likelihood of attempting suicide. They encompass skills, strengths, and resources that help individuals cope with experiences that trigger suicidal thoughts.
Protective factors vary depending on the person, but common examples include[2]:
- Effective mental healthcare, including therapy or counseling
- Strong problem-solving skills and coping strategies for a mental health crisis
- Cultural, spiritual, or religious beliefs that discourage suicide
- Strong connections with family, friends, and social organizations
- Reasons for living and hope for the future
- Good physical health and access to wellness resources
- A strong sense of self-worth and personal control
- Restricted access to means of self-harm
What Should I Do if I Feel Suicidal?
If you’re the one struggling with suicidal thoughts, seek help immediately. Consider finding a therapist who offers services aligning with your needs, and schedule an initial consultation to see if they’re a good fit. Therapists receive professional training and can help you learn healthy coping strategies for suicidal thoughts. You can also look for local support groups to connect with people sharing similar struggles who may have advice to share.
Erin L George, MA-MFT, says that many people don’t realize there are many free online support groups and in-community mental health facilities that help people struggling with suicidal thoughts.
Knowing you aren’t alone and sharing your feelings with others can be a good way to learn coping and healing strategies.
Erin L George, MA-MFT
Additionally, consider reaching out to friends and family members. Community involvement presents another good opportunity to foster a sense of purpose. Activities to consider include:
- Volunteer opportunities
- Interest groups such as book clubs
- Recreational sports
- Classes through community colleges, cultural centers, or libraries
- Community events, including live music or theater
Consider using social media or looking for advertisements at local businesses to find community events.
Where Can I Learn More About Suicide Prevention?
Learn more about suicide prevention by exploring the following resources:
- American Foundation for Suicide Prevention: AFSP advocates for nationwide suicide prevention and mental health support.
- National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention: This public-private partnership aims to transform healthcare systems and facilitate conversations to prevent suicide.
- International Association for Suicide Prevention: IASP promotes evidence-based workshops, educational materials, and conferences to prevent suicide worldwide.
- Suicide Awareness Voices of Education: SAVE is a national nonprofit that provides education, training, and advocacy to raise awareness about suicide prevention and help those who have lost someone to suicide.
- Suicide Prevention Alliance: This organization offers a list of online forums and support groups providing immediate assistance.
- The JED Foundation: This nonprofit empowers teens and young adults to seek emotional support for suicidal thoughts through educational resources, research, and seminars.
Take Proactive Steps for Suicide Prevention
Understanding effective suicide prevention strategies and how to intervene during a crisis can save lives. Identifying protective factors, learning actionable advice, reading about suicide prevention, and taking care of your own well-being can help you prepare. Take proactive steps in your community and social circles today to build hope for a brighter future.
What to Do if You or Someone You Know Is in a Crisis
If you or a loved one requires immediate crisis intervention, reach out to one of the following resources:
- Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Text or call 988 for emotional support or suicide prevention resources.
- Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 to connect with a volunteer crisis counselor.
- National Alliance on Mental Illness: Call 1-800-950-6264 or text HELPLINE to 62640 to seek emotional support or mental health resources.
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988, then press 1, or text 838255 for confidential crisis support.

Written by Ashlee Shefer
Ashlee is an experienced freelance writer specializing in health and wellness. Her background includes working as a content writer, SEO strategist and social media specialist. Throughout the years, she has written content on topics including mental health, substance abuse, therapies, medications, senior care, end-of-life care, insurance and legal assistance. She strives to create content that communicates complex and often sensitive topics into easy-to-understand language to help readers make important decisions regarding their health and well-being.

Edited by Riley Briggs

Subject Matter Expert Erin George, MFT
Erin L. George, MFT, holds a master's degree in family therapy focusing on group dynamics in high-risk families. A court-appointed special advocate for children, she is passionate about helping families restore and find healthy connections.
Sources
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Suicide facts at a glance. Sourced from https://www.cdc.gov/suicide/facts/index.html
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. (n.d.). Risk factors, protective factors, and warning signs. Sourced from https://afsp.org/risk-factors-protective-factors-and-warning-signs/
UCLA Health. (n.d.). Patient & family resources: 5150 or 72-hour hold. Sourced from https://www.uclahealth.org/hospitals/resnick/patient-family-resources#:~:text=5150%20or%2072%20hour%20hold,as%20an%20%E2%80%9Cobservation%20period%E2%80%9D