General practitioners’ needs for support after the suicide of patient: A qualitative study

Background: Most patients that commit suicide consult their GPs before their death. This topic is often surrounded by secrecy and associated with guilt and shame. There is a lack of knowledge about support for GPs after patient suicide. Objectives: To identify the widest range of Slovenian GPs’ problems and needs in connection with patient suicide, and, based on the findings of the study, to prepare ways to assist GPs after patient suicide. Methods: Semi-structured interviews were held with GPs that had experienced a patient’s suicide during their professional career until saturation was reached. The interview guide was piloted. Twenty-two in-depth interviews were carried out between April 2012 and February 2013. Transcripts were coded and thematically analysed using qualitative content analysis. Results: Participating GPs suggested possible forms of support, most frequently individual consultation with a psychologist or a psychiatrist, in person, by phone, or via e-mail. Balint groups, group consultations and various workshops on suicide or depression would be a preferable form of support. Some GPs perceived critical incident review as an attempt to blame them, whereas others saw it as an opportunity for support. A group of peers that could discuss professional dilemmas in which more experienced GPs would help younger GPs would be helpful. Conclusion: Slovenian GPs did not have any formal support system at the time of the research, but they would appreciate such a possibility.