Grief in Practice: Honoring Loss in Medicine

A significant part of my clinical work involves caring for the frail elderly. Along with my joy of taking care of these wonderful people, I experience sadness and a sense of loss when one of my patients dies. The medical literature has begun to research this normal human condition. Feeling and showing grief in the workplace is sometimes thought of and criticized as being unprofessional. I sometimes feel the expectation of the medical profession is to suppress grief.

Practically speaking, the endless workload and treadmill-like pace of Family Medicine often leads me to compartmentalize my grief due to time pressures. If I show my grief, I also feel exposed and vulnerable. Some physicians may even fear professional repercussions if they show grief.

Dr. Sarah Burm from the University of Dalhousie researches grief in healthcare workers. She has taught me that grief should be looked at as an asset in a healthcare worker. Physicians need to have the space and time to express grief since studies reveal grief sparks compassion, and a sense of gratitude in doctors. This might include taking a moment in your day to reflect on the deceased patient, talking to a colleague, journaling or have some other ritual that is dedicated to the death of a patient. Grief is a powerful emotion which allows me to process, reflect and enhance meaning in work as a Family Doctor. My connections, stories and shared care for my patients is why I became a doctor.