When a psychiatrist dies

The reactions of patients to the sudden and unexpected death of their psychiatrist are presented. Grief and mourning responses generally followed expected patterns and included denial, feelings of abandonment, anger, and eventual acceptance. An unexpected intensity of smoldering anger and resentment of patients' relatives and close friends toward the deceased psychiatrist was not openly expressed, especially when the patient's grief reaction was intense or prolonged. The author's response and his unique grief reaction are also discussed. Although the grief reaction of psychiatrist patients is the focus of the article, the implications for all physicians seem clear. Suggestions are offered as to the role medical societies and specialty organizations might play in counseling patients faced with a similar crisis.