Table 2.

Common postcomplaint experiences

Symptoms may develop during any of these stages when adequate coping fails The complaint is served: initial feelings of surprise, shock, outrage, anxiety, or dread Consultation with lawyer: depending on the initial assessment of the case, reactions of anger, denial, concern, reassurance, panic Lengthy period of denials and intrusions: active attempts to erase thoughts about the case, followed by automatic reminders and intrusive thoughts about it; becoming preoccupied by ruminating excessively—exacerbated whenever case-related activity increases, such as before the deposition, when experts testify, and before and during the trial Working through the lengthy process, during which physicians psychologically and intellectually “process” the meaning of the case, their role in it, and their approach to their own defense Relative completion of response: physicians change in many ways as a result of being sued; ideally, adaptations lead to greater competence and a more satisfying personal and professional life