Bereavement and coping with loss

Abstract

Death and resulting bereavement are universal life events, to which grief is a natural response. An average practice has 20 patient deaths per full-time GP every year, each resulting in newly bereaved persons. Often patients consult GPs regarding this, but it remains an area where there is very limited formal training. The majority manage with support from family, friends or faith, but some patients will require more intensive input.