Citation

Sterna W. Psychoter. 2022; 202(3): 57-68.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2022, Polish Psychiatric Association)

DOI

10.12740/PT/160184

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Numerous publications deal with the problem of patient's suicide, attempts to understand its reasons, and methods to best help. There is far less written about the clinician's reaction to the death of his/her patient and its associated experiences. In the Polish literature, there is a lack of publications regarding the clinician's own suicide, its potential determinants, and causes, its impact on others, and its prevention. This article attempts to discuss the problem. At the outset, attention is drawn to the specific difficulties in experiencing this type of death by loved ones. It presents available data on suicide among psychiatrists, psychologists, and psychotherapists. Most publications note the increased risk of suicide in this professional group. Potential barriers to seeking adequate help are highlighted. The possible reactions of the professional community are discussed, as well as what happens to the patient after his therapist's suicide, which makes it much more difficult for the patient to continue seeking help. Finally, recommendations for clinician suicide prevention are presented, the most important of which is the introduction of discourse and training on the topic in the professional community. © 2022 Komitet Redakcyjno Wydawniczy Polskiego Towarzystwa Psychiatrycznego. All rights reserved.

Language: pl

Keywords

human; suicide; psychiatrist; community care; practice guideline; publication; mental patient; psychologist; staff training; occupational hazard; psychotherapist; discourse analysis; Article; help seeking behavior