Which of the following is NOT included as a protective factor associated with suicide prevention?

• A. Access to counseling
• B. Strong social networks
• C. Meaningful work
• D. Sense of pride

Answer: (D)

Protective factors in suicide prevention are conditions that reduce risk by boosting resilience, connectedness, and access to support. Access to counseling provides professional help, teaching coping skills and reducing distress, which lowers the likelihood of acting on suicidal thoughts. Strong social networks give people a sense of belonging and support during tough times, helping to stave off isolation. Meaningful work offers purpose, routine, and a sense of contribution, which can sustain motivation and hope.

Sense of pride, while positive and related to self-esteem, isn’t typically listed as a protective factor in standard suicide-prevention frameworks. It doesn’t by itself create the concrete supports or social connectedness that the other items do. So it isn’t considered a protective factor in this context.