Citation

Dyregrov K, Dyregrov A, Nordanger D. Tidsskr. Nor. Laegeforen. 1999; 119(27): 4010-4015.

Vernacular Title

Omsorg for etterlatte etter selvmord.

Affiliation

Senter for Krisepsykologi, Bergen.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1999, Norske Laegeforening)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

10613088

Abstract

Professionals who have worked with survivors of suicide have emphasized the need for systematic support and care, especially for children. The aim of this study was to evaluate the community support for survivors following suicide of young people (< 30 y). The organization and content of the help was evaluated with a view to develop advice regarding improvement of care. 321 out of 481 communities (67%) in Norway answered a questionnaire. A sub-sample of 266 communities which reported having special support programs for survivors of suicide is presented in this article. Data were analysed by quantitative and qualitative methods. The support offered varies across the nation. While the community physician and the parish priest have crucial roles throughout the country, psychological/psychiatric professionals are more often available in the southern parts of Norway and in larger communities. Most communities establish early contact with the survivors. However, the way contact is established seems casual, the length of the follow-up is varying, and the care for children is inadequate. Smaller communities, communities with a coordinator, a crisis team and written routines, seem to offer the best support. Recommendations for crisis and bereavement intervention programs are proposed in this article.

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