The British journal of general practice : the journal of the Royal College of General Practitioners
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Suicide is a major public health issue. GPs are often on the front line in responding to a suicide. They are called on to support individuals and families in the aftermath of suicide yet there is a dearth of research, particularly from patients' perspectives, on how to provide optimal care for those grieving a suicide in the primary care setting. ⋯ Suicide can result in prolonged, complex grief generating specific patient needs. Stigma may function as a barrier to help seeking. The GP should consider initiating contact with the bereaved. Recommendations have been made to support GPs in their care of the suicide bereaved.