Screening families at risk prior to bereavement

Currently in the UK bereavement counselling is offered to families who are not at risk of developing abnormal grief and those who show signs of traumatic grief are rarely offered help. So, markers of risk in relatives of patients dying from cancer will be identified and ways of screening them within 6 weeks of death, described. The implications for training of health professionals involved in palliative care will be highlighted and methods of intervention described.

It is hoped that this lecture will lead health professionals to become clearer about the kinds of individuals that might benefit from screening and bereavement counselling and ensure that those most needing help receive it. The tyranny of imposing counselling and support on people who will cope well without it should then be avoided.