Grief & Loss

While it’s easy to find distractions (and sometimes this can be helpful for dealing with the day-to-day) it’s important to also give yourself time to process your feelings. Consider connecting with a counselor or other students in a safe, confidential, and supportive space to process grief and loss.

The grieving process can be stressful both physically and mentally. It can be helpful to carve out time to take care of yourself – activities such as journaling, exercising, taking a walk, or watching a movie are just a few examples.

Think of ways that you can honor the memory of your loved one. Make a collage or a scrapbook, write a poem or a story, or volunteer for a charity that was important to them.

Some students find it helpful to reach out to places of worship after the loss of a loved one. There are great resources on campus, including Marsh Chapel and Hillel.

When feelings of grief and loss become overwhelming, it can be helpful to try a simple breathing exercise. Sit in a chair with both feet on the floor and your hands in your lap. Inhale through your nose for a count of five, filling your lungs with air like a balloon. Hold your breath for a few seconds and then exhale through your mouth, again for a count of five. Repeat 3-5 times as needed.

It’s important to share your feelings of grief and loss with trusted people, whether that’s family, friends, or a counselor. You may want to consider talking with a mental health provider if your grief is impacting your daily activities. Need a listening ear? Connect with our All Ears program to talk with a student who gets it and can help you find a way forward.