Psychologists' Experiences of Grief after Client Suicide: A Qualitative Study

Six clinical psychologists were interviewed regarding their experiences with client suicide. Interviewee's responses offered the following insights: (a) all their experiences met the criteria for prolonged grief; (b) the respective work settings significantly influenced the clinician's recovery process; and (c) male clinicians (in contrast to female respondents) reported no personal impact from the client's suicide. Finally and surprisingly, all participating psychologists did not question their clinical skills after the suicide, citing rather their understanding of the client's choice to suicide being outside of their control. Implications for clinical training, practice, and research are addressed.

Managing the suicidal patient

Suicide is a major public health problem. Worldwide, approximately 1% of deaths are due to suicide. In the United States, suicide is the eighth leading cause of death. More than 30,000 Americans commit suicide each year, and nearly 500,000 others make a serious suicide attempt warranting emergency medical attention. Suicide attempts account for 23% of psychiatric visits to emergency rooms.