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Sung H, Lee S. Factors Associated with the Posttraumatic Growth of Psychiatrists Who Have Experienced Patient Suicide: A Pilot Study. J Trauma Dissociation 2024:1-14. [PMID: 39327730 DOI: 10.1080/15299732.2024.2407786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2024] [Accepted: 08/08/2024] [Indexed: 09/28/2024]
Abstract
Previous studies have suggested that psychiatrists undergo posttraumatic growth after experiencing patient suicide. However, research remains scant on the posttraumatic growth of psychiatrists who have experienced patient suicide. Thus, this study examined the factors associated with the posttraumatic growth of psychiatrists who have experienced patient suicide. The sample comprised 39 psychiatrists, and data were collected through an online self-report survey. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics, frequency analysis, Pearson's correlation analysis, and Mann-Whitney U tests. Study results demonstrate that being older, having more clinical experience, having more experience with patient suicide, and receiving supportive supervision were associated with higher levels of posttraumatic growth among psychiatrists who have experienced patient suicide. However, higher levels of posttraumatic stress were associated with lower levels of posttraumatic growth. In conclusion, there is a need to increase support for psychiatrists who have experienced patient suicide to help them overcome occupational trauma and enhance posttraumatic growth. This study suggests several policy and practical implications for enhancing the posttraumatic growth of psychiatrists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyeyeon Sung
- Department of Social Welfare, Changwon National University, Changwon-Si, South Korea
| | - Sungkyu Lee
- School of Social Welfare, Soongsil University, Seoul, South Korea
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2
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Fontao MI, Bulla J, Ross T. Prison and forensic mental health staff after suicides in their care. A narrative review of international and German national evidence. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1400604. [PMID: 38938459 PMCID: PMC11209187 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1400604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024] Open
Abstract
There is a growing body of international research investigating the impact of patient suicide on mental health professionals. The experience of losing a patient to suicide can have a significant and, in some cases, long-lasting (negative) impact on mental health professionals. However, the nature and extent of the impact on prison staff or forensic mental health professionals in particular is less clear. This narrative review summarises both quantitative and qualitative studies and key findings in this area, focusing on the above professions. A literature search was conducted using PsychInfo and Google Scholar, covering the period from 2000 onwards. The vast majority of findings relate to mental health professionals in general. We were unable to identify any published reports on the responses of forensic psychiatric staff. The majority of identified studies in the prison context are qualitative. Studies from German-speaking countries are particularly scarce in both the prison and mental health contexts. We conclude that there is a profound lack of knowledge about the impact of client/patient suicide on the subgroups of (German) prison and forensic psychiatric staff. Clearly, more research is needed on both the nature and extent of the impact, as well as on the specific organisational and supportive factors that help to mitigate the negative effects of suicide.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jan Bulla
- Forensic Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Reichenau Psychiatric Center, Reichenau, Germany
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Thomas Ross
- Forensic Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Reichenau Psychiatric Center, Reichenau, Germany
- Department of Forensic Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
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3
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Pulleyn ECJ, Van der Hallen R. Exploring the Role of Age and Gender on the Impact of Client Suicide in Mental Health Practitioners. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2024; 89:470-484. [PMID: 35231194 PMCID: PMC11100262 DOI: 10.1177/00302228221075287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Objective: Previous research has revealed that mental health professionals (MHPs) often experience severe, yet varying, levels of short-term impact in the aftermath of client suicide. Individual differences are significant, yet what factors help explain these differences remains unclear. The current study investigated the role of the MHPs' and the clients' age and gender upon the impact of client suicide. Method: An international sample of 213 MHPs, aged between 18 and 75, reported on a client's suicide and its short-term impact (IES-R). Results: The results indicate that both MHPs' and clients' gender did not affect impact. MHPs' and clients' age did not affect impact individually, although a significant interaction effect was revealed. Conclusion: Age, not gender, of the MHP and client are relevant in light of the impact of client suicide. Potential implications and suggestions for future research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward C. J. Pulleyn
- Department of Psychology, Education and Child Studies, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ruth Van der Hallen
- Department of Psychology, Education and Child Studies, Erasmus University Rotterdam, Netherlands
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Elyoseph Z, Levkovich I. Beyond the Surface: Teachers' Perceptions and Experiences in Cases of Non-Suicidal Self-Injury Among High School Students. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2024:302228231223275. [PMID: 38174720 DOI: 10.1177/00302228231223275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Non-suicidal self-injury (NNSI) among adolescents is a significant concern. This study aimed to explore teachers' perceptions and experiences in cases of NSSI among their students. This qualitative-phenomenological study used in-depth, semi-structured interviews conducted with 27 teachers from high-schools in Israel. Thematic analysis was used to identify patterns and themes. Theme 1 highlighted the emotional impact of discovering self-injury incidents, including panic, confusion, and helplessness. Theme 2 focused on teachers' limited professional support and their need for training and guidance. Theme 3 explored teachers' desire to help students and their strategies for building connections and providing empathy, sometimes despite emotional detachment. Theme 4 emphasized the importance of involving parents and the need for effective communication. This study emphasizes the importance of providing teachers comprehensive training to address NSSI effectively. These findings provide a better understanding of teachers' experiences and underscore the need for enhanced support systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zohar Elyoseph
- Department of Psychology and Educational Counseling, The Center for Psychobiological Research, Max Stern Yezreel Valley College, Emek Yezreel, Israel
- Department of Brain Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Inbar Levkovich
- Faculty of Graduate Studies, Oranim Academic College, Kiryat Tiv'on, Israel
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Durif-Bruckert C, Cuvillier B, Vieux M, Chalancon B, Villeval P, Leaune E. Psychiatric trainees as second victims after exposure to patient suicide: a French qualitative study. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1308021. [PMID: 38173704 PMCID: PMC10764017 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1308021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The exposure to patient suicide (PS) has been identified as one of the most frequent and troubling professional experience for psychiatric trainees. Further studies are needed to better understand how residents cope with these experiences and the association between perceived support and the impacts of PS. Method In this qualitative study, we aimed to assess the impact of exposure to PS during psychiatric residency on trainees' professional career and practical experience. A total of 19 French psychiatric residents participated in 4 focus-groups performed between November 2017 and May 2019. Results A total of 4 thematic clusters were identified through a five-step content analysis, namely: (a) reactions to the exposure; (b) coping strategies; (c) professional impact; and (d) prevention and postvention proposals. All participants described the critical impact of the support provided after PS, especially by their senior staff. Those who felt supported by their superior reported less negative impact, both in emotional and professional dimensions. Participants also shared proposals to improve the prevention and postvention issues related to the exposure to PS. Conclusion We performed the first qualitative study based on focus groups on the impact of PS on psychiatric residents, which allowed for an in-depth understanding of the participants' lived experiences of the exposure to PS. The narratives inform the need and means to implement prevention and postvention strategies designed to buffer the negative impact of the exposure to PS in psychiatric trainees.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Maxime Vieux
- Center for Suicide Prevention, Centre Hospitalier le Vinatier, Bron, France
- Groupe d’Etude et de Prévention duSuicide, Saint-Benoit, France
| | - Benoit Chalancon
- Center for Suicide Prevention, Centre Hospitalier le Vinatier, Bron, France
- Groupe d’Etude et de Prévention duSuicide, Saint-Benoit, France
| | | | - Edouard Leaune
- Center for Suicide Prevention, Centre Hospitalier le Vinatier, Bron, France
- Groupe d’Etude et de Prévention duSuicide, Saint-Benoit, France
- RESHAPE, Inserm U1290, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, Lyon, France
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Shinton R, Ledwith S. Non-Qualified Staff's Experience of Suicidal Behaviour in Adult Mental Health Inpatient Services. OMEGA-JOURNAL OF DEATH AND DYING 2023:302228231212649. [PMID: 37922527 DOI: 10.1177/00302228231212649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
Suicide and attempted suicide of people receiving care in Adult Mental Health Inpatient Services (AMHIS) leads to significant emotions amongst mental health professionals, characterised by guilt and shame. A sense of responsibility occurs due to hospital being seen as a safe place. However, little is known about what it is like for 'non-qualified' staff. This study explored experiences of suicide and attempted suicide on 'non-qualified' staff in AMHIS. Semi-structured interviews explored ten staff's experiences. Participants were recruited online and transcripts were analysed using Reflexive Thematic Analysis. Four themes were identified; 'Direct personal impact', 'Unrealistic expectations', 'Attempting to contain the impact' and 'Acclimatisation'. Ten sub-themes outlined; responsibility for assessing risk, shame and protective strategies to aid acceptance. The results provide insight into the unique experience of non-qualified staff in AMHIS experiencing suicidal behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Shinton
- Thesis Submitted to Staffordshire University in Partial Fulfilment of the Professional Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, Stoke-on-Trent, UK
| | - Susan Ledwith
- Thesis Submitted to Staffordshire University in Partial Fulfilment of the Professional Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, Stoke-on-Trent, UK
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Murphy PT, Clogher L, van Laar A, O'Regan R, McManus S, McIntyre A, O'Connell A, Geraghty M, Henry G, Hallahan B. The impact of service user's suicide on mental health professionals. Ir J Psychol Med 2022; 39:74-84. [PMID: 30777583 DOI: 10.1017/ipm.2019.4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Our principle objective was to examine the personal and professional impact of service user (SU) suicide on mental health professionals (MHPs). We also wished to explore putative demographic or clinical factors relating to SUs or MPHs that could influence the impact of SU suicide for MHPs and explore factors MHPs report as helpful in reducing distress following SU suicide. METHODS A mixed-method questionnaire with quantitative and thematic analysis was utilised. RESULTS Quantitative data indicated SU suicide was associated with personal and professional distress with sadness (79.5%), shock (74.5%) and surprise (68.7%) particularly evident with these phenomena lasting less than a year for more than 90% of MHPs. MHPs also reported guilt, reduced self-confidence and a fear of negative publicity. Thematic analysis indicated that some MHPs had greater expertise when addressing SU suicidal ideation and in supporting colleagues after experiencing a SU suicide. Only 17.7% of MHPs were offered formal support following SU suicide. CONCLUSION SU suicide impacts MHPs personally and professionally in both a positive and negative fashion. A culture and clear pathway of formal support for MHPs to ascertain the most appropriate individualised support dependent on the distress they experience following SU suicide would be optimal.
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Affiliation(s)
- P T Murphy
- Galway Mental Health Service, HSE West, Health Centre, Brackernagh, Ballinasloe, Galway, Ireland
- Department of Psychology, HSE West, Merlin Park University Hospital, Galway, Ireland
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - L Clogher
- Department of Psychology, HSE West, Merlin Park University Hospital, Galway, Ireland
| | - A van Laar
- Department of Liaison Psychiatry, University Hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - R O'Regan
- Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, Inpatient Unit, Merlin Park Hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - S McManus
- Department of Psychology, HSE West, Merlin Park University Hospital, Galway, Ireland
| | - A McIntyre
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - A O'Connell
- Department of Psychology, HSE West, Merlin Park University Hospital, Galway, Ireland
| | - M Geraghty
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - G Henry
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - B Hallahan
- Department of Psychiatry, University Hospital Galway, Galway, Ireland
- School of Medicine, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
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8
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Exploring the impact of suicide care experiences and post-intervention supports sought among community pharmacists: a cross-sectional survey. Int J Clin Pharm 2022; 44:1247-1258. [PMID: 35445311 PMCID: PMC9718696 DOI: 10.1007/s11096-022-01398-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2022] [Revised: 03/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a need to appropriately train, support and remunerate pharmacists for their expanding roles in mental healthcare. Pharmacists often care for people experiencing mental health crises, including suicidal thoughts and behaviours, but little is known about pharmacists' suicide care experiences. AIM This cross-sectional study aimed to explore the impact of professional experiences with people at risk of suicide and support accessed, among community pharmacists. METHOD A survey exploring pharmacists' experiences with people at risk of suicide and post-intervention support-seeking was disseminated through Australian and Canadian professional associations, conferences and social media (June 2016-May 2017). Quantitative data were analysed using Chi-squared, Fisher's exact and independent t-tests, where appropriate. Qualitative data exploring the impact of these experiences were thematically analysed, and reasons for not seeking help post-intervention were identified. RESULTS Among 378 respondents, 84% had encountered patients at risk of suicide and 28% had lost patients to suicide. Some were negatively affected personally and/or professionally (11%), of which 88% did not seek professional support, mainly due to uncertainty about available services. Pharmacists were significantly more negatively affected if they had a personal mental health diagnosis (p = 0.017) and previous suicide care experiences (p = 0.001). Qualitative themes included: expanding knowledge and skills, role limitation and emotional impact and response. CONCLUSION A large proportion of pharmacists have interacted with suicidal patients and are impacted by these experiences, yet few seek help due to lack of awareness and access. There is a need to recognize pharmacists' roles in suicide care, and develop pharmacist-specific post-intervention support.
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Van der Hallen R. Suicide Exposure and the Impact of Client Suicide: A Structural Equation Modeling Approach. Arch Suicide Res 2021; 27:426-438. [PMID: 34961396 DOI: 10.1080/13811118.2021.2020190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Client suicide, used to refer to situations where a mental health practitioner (MHP) is exposed, affected, or bereaved by a client's suicide, is known to have a profound impact on MHPs. The current study investigated (1) the short- and long-term impact of client suicide and (2) to what extent gender, years of experience, therapeutic background, and exposure to suicidality predicted impact. METHODS An international sample of 213 mental health practitioners completed an online survey on the impact of client suicide. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION Overall, results indicate MHPs are significantly affected by client suicide. A two-factor model in which impact of client suicide was predicted by two latent variables, MHP Characteristics and Exposure to Suicidality, explained 43% of short-term, 69% of long-term emotional, and 60% of long-term professional impact. Whereas MHP characteristics did not significantly predict any of the three impact variables (ps >.05), Exposure to Suicidality significantly predicted all three outcome variables (ps <.001). Interestingly, lived experience or exposure to suicidality of friends/family members predicted more impact, while exposure to suicidality at work predicted less impact of client suicide. Implications for both research and clinical practice are discussed.HIGHLIGHTSMHPs are significantly affected by client suicide;Previous exposure to suicidality predicts the impact of client suicide;MHP characteristics do not predict the impact of client suicide.
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Agrawal A, Gitlin M, Melancon SNT, Booth BI, Ghandhi J, DeBonis K. Responding to a Tragedy: Evaluation of a Postvention Protocol Among Adult Psychiatry Residents. ACADEMIC PSYCHIATRY : THE JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF DIRECTORS OF PSYCHIATRIC RESIDENCY TRAINING AND THE ASSOCIATION FOR ACADEMIC PSYCHIATRY 2021; 45:262-271. [PMID: 33686537 PMCID: PMC8116252 DOI: 10.1007/s40596-021-01418-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In a time of "zero suicide" initiatives and rising suicide rates, resident physicians are particularly susceptible to the psychological and professional ramifications of patient suicide. An adult psychiatry residency program developed and implemented a postvention protocol to address the impact of patient suicide among resident physicians. The current study is a formal evaluation of a training program's postvention protocol from June 2018 to April 2020. METHODS Process and outcome indicators were identified to assess protocol implementation and effectiveness. Process indicators included were postvention protocol adherence. Outcome indicators were perceived helpfulness of postvention protocol-related supports, occupational and general health measures, posttraumatic growth, and posttraumatic stress symptoms following resident participation in the postvention protocol. RESULTS Study response rate was 97% (n = 57/59) and 81% completed the entire survey (n = 48/59). Twenty percent of residents (n = 10/48) experienced patient suicide during residency. Postvention protocol adherence was between 57 and 100%. Protocol-related supports, such as speaking with attendings who had previously experienced an adverse event, were more helpful than other supports (p < 0.01). Compared to residents who had not experienced patient suicide, mean work empowerment, burnout, mental health, and quality of life scores were not significantly different from residents who participated in the postvention protocol (p > 0.05). Posttraumatic growth was positively correlated with self-determination at work (p = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS The postvention protocol was helpful to residents and potentially effective at mitigating the psychological and professional consequences of patient suicide. Study findings may inform standardization of postvention protocols among psychiatry training programs.
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de Lyra RL, McKenzie SK, Every-Palmer S, Jenkin G. Occupational exposure to suicide: A review of research on the experiences of mental health professionals and first responders. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0251038. [PMID: 33930087 PMCID: PMC8087020 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0251038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Exposure to suicide is a major factor for suicidality. Mental health professionals and first responders are often exposed to suicide while on-duty. The objective of this scoping review is to describe the state of current research on exposure to suicide among mental health professionals and first responders, focusing on the prevalence and impact of exposure to suicide, and to identify current gaps in the literature. We searched MEDLINE, Scopus, PsychNET, and Web of Science and identified 25 eligible papers. Between 31.5–95.0% of professionals had been exposed to suicide. Exposure to suicide had impacts on personal life, professional life, and mental health; and caused emotional distress. There was little research investigating exposure to suicide among police officers, firefighters, and paramedics. More research existed on mental health professionals, but none assessed exposure to suicide as a risk for suicide amongst this group. The review concludes that exposure to suicide is distressing for mental health professionals, and likely to be for first responder however, more research on these groups, especially paramedics, is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renan Lopes de Lyra
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
- * E-mail:
| | - Sarah K. McKenzie
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Susanna Every-Palmer
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
| | - Gabrielle Jenkin
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Otago, Wellington, New Zealand
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Leaune E, Allali R, Rotgé JY, Simon L, Vieux M, Fossati P, Gaillard R, Gourion D, Masson M, Olié E, Vaiva G. Prevalence and impact of patient suicide in psychiatrists: Results from a national French web-based survey. Encephale 2021; 47:507-513. [PMID: 33814167 DOI: 10.1016/j.encep.2020.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patient suicide (PS) is known to be a frequent and challenging occupational hazard for mental health professionals. No study previously explored the prevalence and impact of PS in a large sample of French psychiatrists. METHOD A national web-based survey was performed between September and December 2019 to assess (a) the prevalence of the exposure to PS, (b) the emotional, traumatic and professional impacts of PS, and (c) the perceived support in the aftermath of PS in French psychiatrists. Participants were contacted through email to answer the online 62-item questionnaire, including a measure of traumatic impact through the Impact of Event Scale-Revised. Emotional and professional impacts and perceived support were assessed through dedicated items. RESULTS A total of 764 psychiatrists fully completed the survey. Of them, 87.3% reported an exposure to PS and 13.7% reported PTSD symptoms afterward. Guilt, sadness and shock were the most frequent emotions. Among the exposed psychiatrists, 15.1% have temporarily considered changing their career path. The most emotionally distressing PS occurred during their ten first years of practice or during residency. A total of 37.1% of respondents felt unsupported and 50.4% reported that no team meeting had been organized in the aftermath. The feeling of responsibility for the death was strongly associated with negative impacts. CONCLUSION Our results entail considerations to prevent negative mental health outcomes in psychiatrists after PS. Notably, our results advocate for the implementation of educational programs during psychiatric residency and postvention programs in healthcare settings to effectively help psychiatrists in dealing with PS.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Leaune
- Centre Hospitalier le Vinatier, Bron, France; INSERM, U1028, CNRS, UMR5292, Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, Psychiatric Disorders: from Resistance to Response - PSYR2 Team, 69000 Lyon, France.
| | - R Allali
- CHU Paris Seine-Saint-Denis, Hôpital Avicenne, Bobigny, France
| | - J-Y Rotgé
- AP-HP, Service de Psychiatrie d'Adultes, AP-HP-Sorbonne, Paris, France; Inserm U 1127, CNRS UMR 7225, Sorbonne Université, ICM-A-IHU, "Control-Interoception - Attention", Paris, France
| | - L Simon
- Centre Hospitalier le Vinatier, Bron, France
| | - M Vieux
- Centre Hospitalier le Vinatier, Bron, France
| | - P Fossati
- AP-HP, Service de Psychiatrie d'Adultes, AP-HP-Sorbonne, Paris, France; Inserm U 1127, CNRS UMR 7225, Sorbonne Université, ICM-A-IHU, "Control-Interoception - Attention", Paris, France
| | - R Gaillard
- Université de Paris, GHU Psychiatrie et neurosciences, Paris, France
| | - D Gourion
- Paris, France; HEC Paris, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - M Masson
- Nightingale Hospitals-Paris, Clinique du Château de Garches, Garches, France; SHU, GHU Psychiatrie et neurosciences, Paris, France
| | - E Olié
- Departement of Emergency Psychiatry and Acute Care, Lapeyronie Hospital, PSNREC, Université Montpellier, INSERM, CHU de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - G Vaiva
- Université Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1172, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition (LilNCog), 59000 Lille, France; Centre National de Ressources & Résilience pour les psychotraumatismes (Cn2r Lille Paris), 59000 Lille, France
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13
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Leaune E, Durif-Bruckert C, Noelle H, Joubert F, Ravella N, Haesebaert J, Poulet E, Chauliac N, Cuvillier B. Impact of exposure to severe suicidal behaviours in patients during psychiatric training: An online French survey. Early Interv Psychiatry 2021; 15:149-157. [PMID: 31876396 DOI: 10.1111/eip.12923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Revised: 11/17/2019] [Accepted: 12/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
AIM Patient suicide (PS) has been identified as a frequent and stressful "occupational hazard" for mental health professionals. Studies are needed to assess the impact on psychiatric trainees of the exposure to severe patient suicidal behaviours. METHODS Our cross-sectional study aimed to measure the prevalence of exposure to PS and severe patient suicide attempts (SPSA) in French psychiatric trainees. We also assessed the emotional, traumatic and professional impacts and perceived support in the aftermath through a 62-item online questionnaire that included the French version of the IES-R, a composite emotional score and questions about professional practice and perceived support. All French psychiatric trainees were contacted regarding participation in the study through email and social networks between November 2017 and March 2018. RESULTS A total of 409 trainees participated in the survey (response rate = 16.4%). 253 trainees fully completed the questionnaire. Of the 253 trainees, 43.2% were exposed to PS and 13.8% to SPSA. The exposure mostly occurred in the early stage of the training period. Ten to 15% of exposed trainees showed a high level of traumatic and emotional impact and 8.1% exhibited clinically relevant symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). We found that 21.6% received no support in the aftermath, especially after PS. CONCLUSION A large proportion of psychiatric trainees encounter severe suicidal behaviours of patients, and a substantial part of them is highly impacted. Our results thus stress the need for programmes dedicated to the prevention of the deleterious effects of the exposure to PS or SPSA in psychiatric trainees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edouard Leaune
- Center for Suicide Prevention, Centre Hospitalier Le Vinatier, Bron, France.,INSERM U1028, CNRS UMR5292, Claude Bernard Lyon 1 University, PSYR2 Team, Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, Lyon, France.,Philosophical Research Institute of Lyon, Jean Moulin Lyon 3 University, Lyon, France
| | | | - Hugo Noelle
- Center for Suicide Prevention, Centre Hospitalier Le Vinatier, Bron, France.,Lyon-EstSchool of Medicine, Claude Bernard Lyon 1 University, Villeurbanne, France
| | - Fabien Joubert
- Center for Suicide Prevention, Centre Hospitalier Le Vinatier, Bron, France
| | - Noémie Ravella
- Pôle 69G35, Hôpital Saint Cyr au Mont d'Or, Saint Cyr au Mont d'Or, France
| | - Julie Haesebaert
- Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, EA 7425 HESPER Health Services and Performance Research-Claude Bernard Lyon 1 University, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Emmanuel Poulet
- Center for Suicide Prevention, Centre Hospitalier Le Vinatier, Bron, France.,INSERM U1028, CNRS UMR5292, Claude Bernard Lyon 1 University, PSYR2 Team, Lyon Neuroscience Research Center, Lyon, France
| | - Nicolas Chauliac
- Center for Suicide Prevention, Centre Hospitalier Le Vinatier, Bron, France.,Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, EA 7425 HESPER Health Services and Performance Research-Claude Bernard Lyon 1 University, Université de Lyon, Lyon, France
| | - Bruno Cuvillier
- Groupe d'Etude en Psychologie Sociale (GRePS), Lumière Lyon 2 University, Lyon, France
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Sandford DM, Kirtley OJ, Thwaites R, O'Connor RC. The impact on mental health practitioners of the death of a patient by suicide: A systematic review. Clin Psychol Psychother 2020; 28:261-294. [DOI: 10.1002/cpp.2515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- David M. Sandford
- First Step Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust Cumbria UK
- Suicidal Behaviour Research Laboratory University of Glasgow Glasgow UK
| | | | - Richard Thwaites
- First Step Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust Cumbria UK
| | - Rory C. O'Connor
- Suicidal Behaviour Research Laboratory University of Glasgow Glasgow UK
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15
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Rothes IA, Nogueira IC, Coutinho da Silva AP, Henriques MR. When Emergency Patients Die by Suicide: The Experience of Prehospital Health Professionals. Front Psychol 2020; 11:2036. [PMID: 32982848 PMCID: PMC7483580 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2020.02036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The suicide of a patient can be a disturbing experience for health professionals. According to literature, a patient suicide is a professional hazard in the path of prehospital emergency professionals. In the emergency context, several factors pointed out in literature as predictors of increased emotional impact and more severe traumatic reactions are present. However, the impact of patient suicide on prehospital emergency professionals is still an understudied subject. The aim of this study was to better understand the impact and emotional reactions of prehospital emergency professionals facing a patient suicide, using a qualitative approach. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 19 prehospital professionals. Fourteen narratives about a patient suicide experience were obtained. Three main categories emerged from the process of content analyses: (1) emotional impact and related factors; (2) perceptions of impact; (3) emergency context and professional growing. Death by suicide in the prehospital emergency context had a considerable emotional impact on these professionals. Several participants described intrusive thoughts and images as a consequence of attending to the death scene. Regarding the perception of impact, there seemed to exist a variation between the levels of exposed to and affected by suicide. There are specific features of the prehospital emergency context that emerged in the narratives of participants as factors which increased the patient suicide impact, namely attending the death scene, encountering the family or other survivors, and managing the feeling of responsibility for not arriving in time of the rescue. The narratives of prehospital professionals also indicated some negative effects on their professional practice, such as doubts about their competence, training, and limits to liability. The death of a patient by suicide in the prehospital emergency context can be a difficult experience, marked with an intense emotional impact. Nevertheless, it can have some positive effects, such as professional growth and increased awareness for the phenomenon. Specific training appears to be fundamental to promote professional growth and to overcome the negative emotional impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines A Rothes
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Center for Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Isabel C Nogueira
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Center for Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana P Coutinho da Silva
- Center for Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Department of Clinical Nursing, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Brazil
| | - Margarida R Henriques
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Center for Psychology, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Mental Health and Social Care Professionals After a Patient Suicide: Interrelation Between Support Needed, Sought, and Received. J Psychiatr Pract 2020; 26:263-272. [PMID: 32692123 DOI: 10.1097/pra.0000000000000477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
This article investigates the support needed, sought, and received by professionals following a patient suicide. A self-administered questionnaire about the consequences of patient suicide and support issues was completed by 704 professionals. Profiles of support were defined using a 3-dimensional, 8-fold typology based on need for, search for, and sufficiency of support. Stress reactions, professionals' characteristics, relationship with the patient, training, and providers of support were used to characterize the profiles. Most professionals acknowledged receiving sufficient support to manage the aftermath of patient suicide. Almost two thirds of the respondents who received sufficient support reported either not needing or seeking support or both needing and seeking support. Almost 1 in 10 respondents who reported needing and seeking support received insufficient support. Stress reactions were highest among professionals who needed but did not receive sufficient support. Professionals who did not need or seek support were less often in a relationship with the patient at the time of the suicide and less frequently felt close to or responsible for the patient than those who needed and sought support. Trained professionals were overrepresented among those who reported receiving sufficient support while they were less likely to report needing and seeking support or receiving insufficient support. Findings concerning support and its relationship to risk and protective factors suggest the need to adopt a multidimensional approach that distinguishes among support needed, sought, and received. Although an association may exist between perceived stress and need for support, involvement of professionals in the patient relationship may also be linked with the search for support, while training may be associated with receipt of sufficient support.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIM Patient suicide is an adversity that can be considered an "occupational hazard." It has been identified as one of the most stressful adverse events during psychiatric training. The aim of this study was to systematically review the literature assessing the impact of patient suicide on trainees. METHODS We conducted a systematic review on the MEDLINE, Science Direct, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Studies that reported prevalence of patient suicide, quantitative or qualitative assessment of psychological and professional impacts, coping strategies, and support or educational and postvention programs were deemed eligible for inclusion. RESULTS Of the 1994 articles identified, 22 were included. The literature on the topic was scarce, and the quality of the studies was moderate. No article dealt with nonpsychiatric residents. During their training, 46.4% of psychiatric trainees encountered at least one patient suicide. The traumatic impact was significantly more intense in trainees compared to senior physicians. A negative impact on their professional practice was reported by 17% to 39% of trainees. Formal institutional support for the affected trainees was described as having major shortcomings, and informal support from peers and families was reported as the most helpful response. However, 52% of impacted trainees considered encountering patient suicide a useful and beneficial experience. CONCLUSION The frequent posttraumatic symptoms and the negative professional consequences following patient suicide are worrying phenomena that highlight the need to improve suicide prevention and postvention programs during psychiatric training. Identifying trainees with personal vulnerability factors should be a major concern during the postvention process.
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Goldstone D, Bantjes J. Mental health care providers talk about their experiences preventing suicide in people with substance use disorders in South Africa: implications for clinical practice. Int J Psychiatry Clin Pract 2019; 23:40-48. [PMID: 29448854 DOI: 10.1080/13651501.2018.1438628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study explored mental health care providers' experiences of preventing suicide in people with substance use disorders and their perceptions of factors related to clinical practice that contributed to these experiences. METHODS In-depth, semistructured interviews were conducted with 18 mental health care providers working in South Africa. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data inductively with Atlas.ti software. RESULTS Participants described feeling hopeless, helpless, powerless and guilty and needed to debrief from their experiences of preventing suicide. They perceived their experiences to be related to the difficulties of treating substance use disorders, the difficulties of assessing and managing suicide risk and how treating substance use might increase suicide risk. CONCLUSIONS The ways in which mental health care providers think about suicide and make sense of their experiences affects their perceived abilities to prevent suicide. Educating mental health care providers to transcend the limitations of risk factor approaches to suicide prevention and utilise evidence-based strategies for treating substance use disorders and associated problems, may be important to empower them and make them feel competent in suicide prevention. Empowering people with substance use disorders may help prevent suicide and may require collaboration between mental health care providers and allied professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Goldstone
- a Department of Psychology , Stellenbosch University , Stellenbosch , South Africa
| | - Jason Bantjes
- a Department of Psychology , Stellenbosch University , Stellenbosch , South Africa
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Awenat Y, Peters S, Shaw-Nunez E, Gooding P, Pratt D, Haddock G. Staff experiences and perceptions of working with in-patients who are suicidal: qualitative analysis. Br J Psychiatry 2017; 211:103-108. [PMID: 28642259 PMCID: PMC5537568 DOI: 10.1192/bjp.bp.116.191817] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2016] [Revised: 04/04/2017] [Accepted: 04/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BackgroundSuicidal behaviour is frequent in psychiatric in-patients and much staff time and resources are devoted to assessing and managing suicide risk. However, little is known about staff experiences of working with in-patients who are suicidal.AimsTo investigate staff experiences of working with in-patients who are suicidal.MethodQualitative study guided by thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews with mental health staff with experience of psychiatric in-patient care.ResultsTwenty staff participated. All had encountered in-patient suicide deaths or attempts. Three key themes were identified: (a) experiences of suicidality, (b) conceptualising suicidality and (c) talking about suicide.ConclusionsSuicidal behaviour in psychiatric wards has a large impact on staff feelings, practice and behaviour. Staff felt inadequately equipped to deal with such behaviours, with detrimental consequences for patients and themselves. Organisational support is lacking. Training and support should extend beyond risk assessment to improving staff skills in developing therapeutic interactions with in-patients who are suicidal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvonne Awenat
- Yvonne Awenat, MPhil, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences and Centre for New Treatments and Understanding in Mental Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester and Manchester Mental Health and Social Care NHS Trust, Manchester; Sarah Peters, PhD, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences and University of Manchester, Manchester; Emma Shaw-Nunez, MRes, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester and Manchester Mental Health and Social Care NHS Trust, Manchester; Patricia Gooding, PhD, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences and Centre for New Treatments and Understanding in Mental Health, University of Manchester, Manchester and Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester; Daniel Pratt, ClinPsyD, Gillian Haddock, PhD, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences and Centre for New Treatments and Understanding in Mental Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester and Manchester Mental Health and Social Care NHS Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Sarah Peters
- Yvonne Awenat, MPhil, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences and Centre for New Treatments and Understanding in Mental Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester and Manchester Mental Health and Social Care NHS Trust, Manchester; Sarah Peters, PhD, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences and University of Manchester, Manchester; Emma Shaw-Nunez, MRes, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester and Manchester Mental Health and Social Care NHS Trust, Manchester; Patricia Gooding, PhD, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences and Centre for New Treatments and Understanding in Mental Health, University of Manchester, Manchester and Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester; Daniel Pratt, ClinPsyD, Gillian Haddock, PhD, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences and Centre for New Treatments and Understanding in Mental Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester and Manchester Mental Health and Social Care NHS Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Emma Shaw-Nunez
- Yvonne Awenat, MPhil, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences and Centre for New Treatments and Understanding in Mental Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester and Manchester Mental Health and Social Care NHS Trust, Manchester; Sarah Peters, PhD, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences and University of Manchester, Manchester; Emma Shaw-Nunez, MRes, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester and Manchester Mental Health and Social Care NHS Trust, Manchester; Patricia Gooding, PhD, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences and Centre for New Treatments and Understanding in Mental Health, University of Manchester, Manchester and Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester; Daniel Pratt, ClinPsyD, Gillian Haddock, PhD, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences and Centre for New Treatments and Understanding in Mental Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester and Manchester Mental Health and Social Care NHS Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Patricia Gooding
- Yvonne Awenat, MPhil, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences and Centre for New Treatments and Understanding in Mental Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester and Manchester Mental Health and Social Care NHS Trust, Manchester; Sarah Peters, PhD, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences and University of Manchester, Manchester; Emma Shaw-Nunez, MRes, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester and Manchester Mental Health and Social Care NHS Trust, Manchester; Patricia Gooding, PhD, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences and Centre for New Treatments and Understanding in Mental Health, University of Manchester, Manchester and Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester; Daniel Pratt, ClinPsyD, Gillian Haddock, PhD, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences and Centre for New Treatments and Understanding in Mental Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester and Manchester Mental Health and Social Care NHS Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Daniel Pratt
- Yvonne Awenat, MPhil, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences and Centre for New Treatments and Understanding in Mental Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester and Manchester Mental Health and Social Care NHS Trust, Manchester; Sarah Peters, PhD, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences and University of Manchester, Manchester; Emma Shaw-Nunez, MRes, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester and Manchester Mental Health and Social Care NHS Trust, Manchester; Patricia Gooding, PhD, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences and Centre for New Treatments and Understanding in Mental Health, University of Manchester, Manchester and Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester; Daniel Pratt, ClinPsyD, Gillian Haddock, PhD, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences and Centre for New Treatments and Understanding in Mental Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester and Manchester Mental Health and Social Care NHS Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Gillian Haddock
- Yvonne Awenat, MPhil, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences and Centre for New Treatments and Understanding in Mental Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester and Manchester Mental Health and Social Care NHS Trust, Manchester; Sarah Peters, PhD, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences and University of Manchester, Manchester; Emma Shaw-Nunez, MRes, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester and Manchester Mental Health and Social Care NHS Trust, Manchester; Patricia Gooding, PhD, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences and Centre for New Treatments and Understanding in Mental Health, University of Manchester, Manchester and Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester; Daniel Pratt, ClinPsyD, Gillian Haddock, PhD, Division of Psychology and Mental Health, School of Health Sciences and Centre for New Treatments and Understanding in Mental Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester and Manchester Mental Health and Social Care NHS Trust, Manchester, UK
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Whisenhunt JL, DuFresne RM, Stargell NA, Rovnak A, Zoldan CA, Kress VE. Supporting Counselors After a Client Suicide: Creative Supervision Techniques. JOURNAL OF CREATIVITY IN MENTAL HEALTH 2017. [DOI: 10.1080/15401383.2017.1281184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Hagen J, Knizek BL, Hjelmeland H. Mental Health Nurses' Experiences of Caring for Suicidal Patients in Psychiatric Wards: An Emotional Endeavor. Arch Psychiatr Nurs 2017; 31:31-37. [PMID: 28104055 DOI: 10.1016/j.apnu.2016.07.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2016] [Revised: 07/25/2016] [Accepted: 07/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of the study is to investigate mental health nurses' experiences of recognizing and responding to suicidal behavior/self-harm and dealing with the emotional challenges in the care of potentially suicidal inpatients. Interview data of eight mental health nurses were analyzed by systematic text condensation. The participants reported alertness to patients' suicidal cues, relieving psychological pain and inspiring hope. Various emotions are evoked by suicidal behavior. Mental health nurses seem to regulate their emotions and emotional expressions, and balance involvement and distance to provide good care of patients and themselves. Mental health nurses have an important role and should receive sufficient formal support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Hagen
- Department of Applied Social Science, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway; Department of Social Work and Health Science, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Birthe Loa Knizek
- Department of Applied Social Science, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
| | - Heidi Hjelmeland
- Department of Social Work and Health Science, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
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22
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Wang S, Ding X, Hu D, Zhang K, Huang D. A qualitative study on nurses' reactions to inpatient suicide in a general hospital. Int J Nurs Sci 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijnss.2016.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
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Harned MS, Lungu A, Wilks CR, Linehan MM. Evaluating a Multimedia Tool for Suicide Risk Assessment and Management: The Linehan Suicide Safety Net. J Clin Psychol 2016; 73:308-318. [PMID: 27306605 DOI: 10.1002/jclp.22331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2015] [Revised: 03/08/2016] [Accepted: 04/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The present study examined the usability and effectiveness of the Linehan Suicide Safety Net (LSSN), a web-based, multimedia tool designed to support clinicians working with individuals who are suicidal. The core feature of LSSN is the Linehan Risk Assessment and Management Protocol (LRAMP), an empirically derived protocol that provides a structured checklist for assessing, managing, and documenting suicide risk. METHOD Mental health professionals (N = 44) completed assessments at baseline and monthly during a 3-month evaluation period. RESULTS The LSSN was rated as acceptable and highly usable. Use of the LSSN was associated with a significant increase in confidence in conducting suicide risk assessment and management and a decrease in concerns related to treating suicidal clients. CONCLUSION The LSSN appears to be a promising tool for clinicians working with suicidal clients.
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Gulfi A, Castelli Dransart DA, Heeb JL, Gutjahr E. The Impact of Patient Suicide on the Professional Practice of Swiss Psychiatrists and Psychologists. ACADEMIC PSYCHIATRY : THE JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF DIRECTORS OF PSYCHIATRIC RESIDENCY TRAINING AND THE ASSOCIATION FOR ACADEMIC PSYCHIATRY 2016; 40:13-22. [PMID: 25572177 DOI: 10.1007/s40596-014-0267-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2014] [Accepted: 11/17/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Many psychiatrists and psychologists are likely to experience a patient suicide at a point in their professional career. The present paper examines the effects of patient suicide on psychiatrists' and psychologists' professional reactions and working practices and investigates factors that may affect the severity of repercussions on their professional lives. METHOD Data from 271 psychiatrists and psychologists working in various institutional settings and in private practice in French-speaking Switzerland were collected by a written questionnaire. RESULTS Psychiatrists and psychologists reported a range of professional reactions and changes in working practices following a patient suicide. Professional reactions and changes in working practices were more significant among women. The length of therapy and the emotional closeness with the deceased patient were predictive of a greater impact. In contrast, social and psychological support served as a protective factor by reducing negative repercussions on professional practice. Finally, the impact of losing a patient to suicide did not differ between psychiatrists and psychologists in institutional settings and those in private practice. CONCLUSION Although patient suicide affected the professional life of psychiatrists and psychologists, it also encouraged them to review and adjust their working practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alida Gulfi
- University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland - School of Social Work Fribourg, 1762, Givisiez, Switzerland.
| | | | - Jean-Luc Heeb
- University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland - School of Social Work Fribourg, 1762, Givisiez, Switzerland
| | - Elisabeth Gutjahr
- University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland - School of Social Work Fribourg, 1762, Givisiez, Switzerland
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25
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Surgenor PWG, Meehan V, Moore A. Early attrition among suicidal clients. BRITISH JOURNAL OF GUIDANCE & COUNSELLING 2016. [DOI: 10.1080/03069885.2015.1134766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Castelli Dransart DA, Heeb JL, Gulfi A, Gutjahr EM. Stress reactions after a patient suicide and their relations to the profile of mental health professionals. BMC Psychiatry 2015; 15:265. [PMID: 26511910 PMCID: PMC4624606 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-015-0655-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2015] [Accepted: 10/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patient suicide is a professional hazard for mental health professionals and an event likely to trigger stress reactions among them. This study aimed to identify typical profiles of professionals after a patient suicide to address the severity of stress reactions and its discriminant variables. METHODS Mental health professionals (N = 666) working in institutional settings or private practice in the French-speaking part of Switzerland filled out a self-administered questionnaire including the IES-R (Impact of Event Scale-Revised). Profiles were identified by cluster analysis. RESULTS The interplay of variables pertaining to the relationship to the patient, exposure to suicide, support and training contributed to explaining the severity of stress reactions after a patient suicide. Five profiles of professionals were identified. Low-impacted professionals (55.8% of the sample) were characterised either by high support and anticipation (anticipators with support), emotional distance to the patient (distant professionals) or no contact with the patient at the time of death (no more contact with patient professionals). Emotional closeness to, and responsibility for the patient were typical of moderately-impacted professionals (36.6%, concerned professionals), while highly-impacted professionals felt emotionally close to the patient and lacked support although more than half of them sought it (7.7%, unsupported professionals). CONCLUSIONS Differences in the professionals' profiles relate prominently to the interplay between risk and protective factors. Professionals who were appropriately supported, i.e., according to their risk profile, were able to cope with the event. Taking into account the profiles of professionals and the severity of stress reactions may enable the screening of those professionals most in need of support. Those most impacted sought out help more frequently. However, only a minority of them were offered sufficient support. Institutional or vocational bodies should take measures to ensure that professionals seeking help find it easily and promptly. The combination of training and support seems to be crucial for mitigating risk factors since the three low impacted subgroups had received the most training and support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dolores Angela Castelli Dransart
- HES-SO: University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland, School of Social Work Fribourg (HETS-FR), Rue Jean Prouvé 10, 1762, Givisiez, Switzerland.
| | - Jean-Luc Heeb
- HES-SO: University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland, School of Social Work Fribourg (HETS-FR), Rue Jean Prouvé 10, 1762, Givisiez, Switzerland.
| | - Alida Gulfi
- HES-SO: University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland, School of Social Work Fribourg (HETS-FR), Rue Jean Prouvé 10, 1762, Givisiez, Switzerland.
| | - Elisabeth M. Gutjahr
- HES-SO: University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland, School of Social Work Fribourg (HETS-FR), Rue Jean Prouvé 10, 1762 Givisiez, Switzerland
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Rothes IA, Henriques MR, Leal JB, Lemos MS. Facing a Patient Who Seeks Help After a Suicide Attempt. CRISIS 2014; 35:110-22. [DOI: 10.1027/0227-5910/a000242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Background: Although intervention with suicidal patients is one of the hardest tasks in clinical practice, little is known about health professionals’ perceptions about the difficulties of working with suicidal patients. Aims: The aims of this study were to: (1) describe the difficulties of professionals facing a suicidal patient; (2) analyze the differences in difficulties according to the sociodemographic and professional characteristics of the health professionals; and (3) identify the health professionals’ perceived skills and thoughts on the need for training in suicide. Method: A self-report questionnaire developed for this purpose was filled out by 196 health professionals. Exploratory principal components analyses were used. Results: Four factors were found: technical difficulties; emotional difficulties; relational and communicational difficulties; and family-approaching and logistic difficulties. Differences were found between professionals who had or did not have training in suicide, between professional groups, and between the number of patient suicide attempts. Sixty percent of the participants reported a personal need for training and 85% thought it was fundamental to implement training plans targeted at health professionals. Conclusion: Specific training is fundamental. Experiential and active methodologies should be used and technical, relational, and emotional questions must be included in the training syllabus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inês Areal Rothes
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | | | - Joana Barreiros Leal
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Marina Serra Lemos
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Séguin M, Bordeleau V, Drouin MS, Castelli-Dransart DA, Giasson F. Professionals' reactions following a patient's suicide: review and future investigation. Arch Suicide Res 2014; 18:340-62. [PMID: 24846577 DOI: 10.1080/13811118.2013.833151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to review the literature and make suggestions for further investigation into the topic of professionals' reactions following a patient's suicide. An extensive search of the literature has been undertaken using computer database search. Even if findings are heterogenous, most studies suggest limited stress-related or affective-related reactions for the majority of respondents. Whereas, findings with regards to the impact on professional practice are consistent in identifying important consequences in the way professionals conduct their clinical assessment and reach treatment decisions after a patient's suicide. Future research should investigate how this event changes the clinician's personal growth and capacity to establish a therapeutic alliance with other suicidal patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monique Séguin
- a Université du Québec en Outaouais, Department of Psychology , Gatineau , Québec , Canada
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Dransart DAC, Gutjahr E, Gulfi A, Didisheim NK, Séguin M. Patient suicide in institutions: emotional responses and traumatic impact on Swiss mental health professionals. DEATH STUDIES 2014; 38:315-321. [PMID: 24593010 DOI: 10.1080/07481187.2013.766651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
The reactions of professionals after a patient suicide are still a subject of controversy in academic literature. This article reports on retrospective data about the aftermath experienced by mental health professionals working in institutional settings in Switzerland. Findings indicate that both self-rated emotional responses and traumatic impact were low for the majority of the 258 professionals surveyed. Variables that mediated the impact included the support received and the characteristics of the professional-patient relationship. No significant differences were found with regard to gender and profession.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dolores Angela Castelli Dransart
- a School of Social Work and Social Education , University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland , Givisiez , Switzerland
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Wurst FM, Kunz I, Skipper G, Wolfersdorf M, Beine KH, Vogel R, Müller S, Petitjean S, Thon N. How therapists react to patient's suicide: findings and consequences for health care professionals' wellbeing. Gen Hosp Psychiatry 2013; 35:565-70. [PMID: 23829978 DOI: 10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2013.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2013] [Revised: 05/08/2013] [Accepted: 05/09/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To test the robustness of the findings of previous studies in a large aggregated sample regarding (a) the impact of a patient's suicide on therapist's distress; (b) identify a potential subgroup of therapists needing special postvention; (c) and assess potential differences in overall distress between professional groups and at different levels of care. METHODS A questionnaire, characterizing the therapists, their reactions and the patients, had been sent out to 201 psychiatric hospitals in Germany providing different levels of care. Aggregated data from previous studies have been used. RESULTS In 39.6% of all cases, therapists suffer from severe distress after a patients' suicide. The global item "overall distress" can be used as an indicator to identify a subgroup of therapists that might need individualized postvention. No significant difference in overall distress experienced was observed between professional groups and at different levels of care. CONCLUSION Our data suggest that identifying the severely distressed subgroup could be done using a visual analogue scale for overall distress. As a consequence, more specific, individualized and intensified help could be provided to these professionals, helping them to overcome distress and thereby ensuring delivery of high quality care to the patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Friedrich Martin Wurst
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy II, Christian-Doppler-Hospital, Paracelsus Medical University, A-5020 Salzburg, Austria.
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Rothes IA, Scheerder G, Van Audenhove C, Henriques MR. Patient suicide: the experience of Flemish psychiatrists. Suicide Life Threat Behav 2013; 43:379-94. [PMID: 23530711 DOI: 10.1111/sltb.12024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2012] [Accepted: 01/23/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The experience of the most distressing patient suicide on Flemish psychiatrists is described. Of 584 psychiatrists, 107 filled a self-report questionnaire. Ninety-eight psychiatrists had been confronted with at least one patient suicide. Emotional suffering and impotence were the most common feelings reported. Changes in professional practice were described and included a more structured approach to the management of suicidal patients. Colleagues and contact with the patient's family were the most frequently used sources of help, whereas team case review and colleagues were rated as the most useful ones. Patient suicide leads to emotional suffering and has a considerable professional impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inês Areal Rothes
- Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE We developed an every other year, scheduled retreat model for clinicians and trainees to explore emotional and professional reactions that they may face after a patient's suicide. METHODS Psychiatry ambulatory clinical staff, residents, and faculty participated in a halfday retreat, which consisted of an opening panel discussion, in which panel members related their experiences of patient suicide, break out groups, and a final panel discussion. Unlinked preand post-retreat surveys were electronically sent to all potential participants. RESULTS The pre-retreat survey was completed by 103 clinicians; 20% of the respondents were trainees or fellows, and 47% reported that they had experienced a patient suicide. Text responses to the pre-retreat survey reflected the wish to obtain a better understanding of the impact of patient suicide on caregivers, to cope with the event from a personal and professional standpoint, and to get a clearer understanding of what supports are available within the department. The post-retreat survey was completed by 45 clinicians. Comments after the retreat reflected an increased awareness of both shortand long-term effects on clinicians after a patient suicide and the extensive impact that a patient suicide can have on providers within their ambulatory care department. CONCLUSION An alldepartment ambulatory retreat model has value in providing clinicians with support and information in a structured, educational setting to help reduce the sense of stigma and provide an increased awareness of the magnitude of the impact on clinicians who experience the death of a patient by suicide.
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Psychopathology is a risk factor for suicidal behavior. It is likely that psychiatrists will have to deal with an attempted or completed suicide by a patient at some point in their careers. The goal of this study was to assess psychiatrists' emotional reactions to patients' suicidal behavior. METHODS Data were collected using a questionnaire that was administered to psychiatrists after a completed or attempted suicide by one of their patients. RESULTS Thirty-four psychiatrists participated in the study and reported on 62 attempted suicides and 11 completed suicides. All of the participants reported at least one emotion following the event. After an attempted suicide, trainees were more likely than consultants to experience psychological pain, guilt, self-doubt, and frustration. Being a trainee was also associated with psychological pain, guilt, fear, self-doubt, and frustration in regression analysis. Shock, disbelief, fear, self-doubt, and embarrassment were associated with completed rather than attempted suicides. CONCLUSIONS Attempted and completed suicides have a significant impact on psychiatrists. The impact of an attempted suicide is usually less severe. The patterns of reaction differ between consultant and trainee psychiatrists.
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