Protective factors are conditions that make life feel worth continuing and buffer people against
crisis: belonging, purpose, coping skills, access to care, and safer environments.
Build protection
- Belonging: family, friends, peers, faith/culture.
- Purpose: service, creativity, goals, routines.
- Skills: emotion regulation, problem-solving.
- Access: affordable, compassionate care.
- Means safety: secure firearms/meds; remove hazards.
If you’re in immediate danger: In the U.S., call or text 988. Outside the U.S., visit FindAHelpline.com.