Social, psychological and cultural factors can all interact to lead a person to suicidal thoughts or behaviour. For many people, an attempt may occur after a long period of suicidal thoughts or feelings, or it may be more impulsive. Several risk factors (see Table 1) commonly act together to increase vulnerability to suicidal behaviour. 

Protective factors are those that can help to reduce such vulnerability. The consideration of how best to support and enhance access to protective factors is an important part of preventing suicide.

Table 1: Risk factors and protective factors in suicide

Risk factors

Societal

• Difficulties accessing or receiving mental healthcare
• Access to means of suicide
• Inappropriate media reporting
• Stigma associated with mental health, substance abuse or suicidal behaviour which prevents people from seeking help

Community

• Poverty
• Experiences of trauma or abuse
• Experiences of disaster, war or conflict
• Experiences of discrimination

Relationships

• Isolation and lack of social support
• Relationship breakdown
• Loss or conflict

Individual

• Previous suicide attempts
• Self-harm behaviours
• Mental ill-health
• Drug misuse
• Alcohol misuse
• Financial loss
• Chronic pain
• Family history of suicide

Protective factors

Societal

• The ability to easily access effective mental health support and treatment when needed

Community

• Having supportive school environments for children and young people

Relationships

• Having strong and supportive social connections (such as positive relationships with family, friends and partners)

Individual

• Being in full-time paid employment
• Problem-solving and coping skills that help people manage in difficult circumstances
• Feeling hopeful or optimistic toward the future even in times of stress.

Source: Mental Health Foundation.