Which factor is considered protective in suicide risk assessment?

• A. Ideation
• B. Plan
• C. Protective factors
• D. Access to means

Answer: (C)

Protective factors are resources and attributes that reduce the likelihood of suicide by boosting resilience, support, and engagement with care. They help counterbalance risk factors and provide reasons for living, making it more likely someone will seek help and withstand crises. In a risk assessment, identifying protective factors matters because they can be strengthened and leveraged in safety planning and treatment. Examples include strong social support and connectedness to family or community, effective coping and problem-solving skills, access to mental health care, treatment adherence, and a sense of purpose or beliefs that discourage self-harm. These factors buffer distress and encourage help-seeking, even when there are present risk indicators like suicidal thoughts or a plan. Protective factors are dynamic, so ongoing reassessment is important to adapt the plan as circumstances change.