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U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Methamphetamine and Suicide Prevention Initiative (MSPI)

Protective Factors

A teenage girl and boy holding a sign that reads culture protects

American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) culture often provides protective factors in AI/AN communities, and culture serves as one of the quintessential pathways toward healing, health and wellness. Protective factors are elements in a person's life which make it easier to avoid hazard or risk. Protective factors can come from individuals, families, and communities. The following behavioral, social, familial, or environmental factors may help prevent or reduce the likelihood that an individual may use or become dependent on drugs, or attempt suicide:

  • Positive connections to family, friends, or community
  • Lack of access to lethal means for enacting suicide or drugs
  • Availability of and access to clinical services and medical treatment
  • Cultural or religious beliefs that value self-preservation
  • Willingness to get treatment
  • Self-control
  • High self-esteem
  • Strong coping and problem-solving skills
  • Resistance to negative peer pressure