Stress, marital separation and divorce.

Marital separation and divorce are common and major causes of stress in our society. The general practitioner should keep marital disharmony and pending separation in mind when one or both partners present with recurring medical problems that are often minor in nature. It is important for the GP to become involved with caring, support and appropriate counselling of the partners, their children and other family members. Any homicidal or suicidal threats should be taken very seriously.