This guide isn't meant to supply you with everything but give you a starting piont if you're completely at loss.
HEALTH, ARMOR, HEALTH, ARMOR, HEALTH, ARMOR, HEALTH, ARMOR
If you want to survive fights you NEED HEALTH and you NEED ARMOR. If you're playing a heavy character you absolutely need to recognize that you are fat, and easy to hit because you're character is bigger.
There is strength in numbers, stick with your team and fight as a group. If you thinkg a teammate might need help, jump in to assist but realize that if you jump into a 2v4 try to trade or peck damage in but know some fights you have to give up.