Patient suicide and its impact on the psychotherapist.

Abstract

Patient suicide is a source of considerable anxiety for psychotherapists. It is experienced by a substantial number of therapists, and has a significant emotional impact when it occurs. A survey of 105 therapists forms the basis for the author's report on the frequency of patient suicide and its impact on therapists, according to the phases of their reaction. Methods of coping with patient suicide, particularly group support and training that anticipate such an experience, are described. Of particular note are some survey respondents' comments on lessons they have learned from a patient's suicide.