Suicide and the Air Force Mental Health Provider: Frequency and Impact

The authors reviewed data from 97 active duty Air Force mental health providers who responded to an anonymous survey. 48% of the providers had experienced a patient’s suicide. One-third of them reported a sense of responsibility for that patient’s death. More than 20% reported significant emotional or behavioural changes following the death. Many providers experienced alterations in their self-esteem & their use of peer consultation following the suicide. Speaking to clergy members, friends, & other providers was generally beneficial following the suicide of a patient. Recommendations are given to minimize the impact of suicide on providers. (16 refs.) JA