Protect Yourself - Protect the Marine Corps

Harmful behaviors can cause serious harm to individuals and communities. They include sexual assault, death by suicide, substance misuse, and domestic violence. The good news is there are ways to reduce the risk of all of these behaviors.   

What protective factors can decrease the likelihood of, or buffer a person from experiencing, harmful behaviors?

Life skills: Learning important skills like making friends, resolving conflicts, managing stress, and expressing emotions in a healthy way can help people cope with tough situations and know where to turn for help.  

Supportive command climate: Creating a community that values respect, kindness, and inclusivity can go a long way in preventing harm. This includes using respectful language, celebrating successes, and addressing behaviors that undermine respect for others.  

Access to services: Making sure people can get the help they need when they need it, is crucial. This can include time off and transportation to medical and behavioral health services.  

Positive activities and programs: Organizing fun and safe activities, like social events and volunteer opportunities, can give people alternatives to harmful behaviors like binge drinking. 

Peer and Family Support: Having a strong network of loved ones and peers to lean on can make a big difference during times of higher stress.  

Leadership: Leaders who demonstrate respect, empathy, and inclusivity, establish clear expectations, and foster open communication help people feel encouraged to seek help when needed.    

By working together to promote these protective factors, we can reduce the risk of harmful behaviors. While no single factor can guarantee that harm won't happen, they can make a significant difference together 

To learn more about preventing harm and promoting protective factors, consider signing up for the Marine Corps Prevention in Action Newsletter at www.usmc-mccs.org/news/prevention.