b'HopelessnessProblems with alcohol or drugsPast suicide attempt(s)Family history of suicide or mental health problemsProblems with impulse control and aggressionSerious medical condition and/or pain Personality traits that create a pattern of intense, unstable relationships, or trouble with the law Psychosis, i.e., marked change in behavior, unusual thoughts, and behavior or confusion about reality History of early childhood trauma, abuse, neglect, or lossCurrent family stress or transitionsHistory of head traumaProtective Factors for SuicideProtective factors are characteristics or conditions that may help to decrease a persons suicide risk. Protectivefactors for suicide have not been studied as thoroughly as risk factors, so less is known about them. These factors do not eliminate the possibility of suicide, especially in someone with risk factors. Protective factors help to create resiliency, or an ability to bounce back from setbacks encountered throughout life. Protective factors for suicide include:Receiving effective mental health carePositive connections to family, peers, and communityAccess to welcoming and affirming faith-based institutions, supportive social groups and clubsPresence of healthy role modelsDevelopment of coping mechanisms, safety plans, and self-care strategiesThe skills and ability to solve problemsCultural, spiritual, or faith-based beliefs that promote connections and help-seekingNote that protective factors do not entirely remove risk, but can mitigate against risk. There are brief periods when students with strong protective factors can have them temporarily dismantled by an acute stressor or sudden increase in other risk factors (e.g., if depression worsens, a students usual positive coping skills and resilience may diminish). At-Risk Student Populations It is important for school districts to be aware of student populations that are at elevated risk for suicidal behavior based on various factors.Youth Living with Mental and/or Substance Use Disorders Mental health conditions, in particular depression/dysthymia, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, eating disorders, intermittent explosive disorder, and conduct disorder are important risk factors for suicidal behavioramong young people. 8An estimated one in four to five children have a diagnosable mental condition that Model School District Policy on Suicide Prevention | Model Language, Commentary, and Resources 18'