Patients' suicides stress psychiatrists

Many doctors experience considerable work related stress, and psychiatrists report especially high levels. One potential stressor is patients committing suicide, although the effects of this have not been systematically evaluated in Britain. On p 1571 Alexander et al report the results of a confidential questionnaire on patient suicide sent to all consultant psychiatrists in Scotland. They found that patient suicide had a substantial effect on doctors' health, relationships, and professional practice. Family, friends, and colleagues were the most effective personal sources of help. Team and other reviews were also helpful provided that they were not conducted in a climate of blame.

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Relevant Article

Suicide by patients: questionnaire study of its effect on consultant psychiatrists

David A Alexander, Susan Klein, Nicola M Gray, Ian G Dewar, and John M Eagles
BMJ 2000 320: 1571-1574. [Abstract] [Full Text] [PDF]