Dealing with Grief in College

By Ashley Paskill on August 5, 2018

Dealing with grief is tough, but it is even tougher when it is coupled with the stress of everything that comes with college. At one point or another, you will have to deal with the loss of a loved one, and while it is tough, there are ways that you can come out stronger on the other side. Hang in there and take care of yourself and things will all work out.

1. Allow yourself to feel

When you are in school, it can be tempting to want to push your emotions to the side and keep focusing on the tasks you need to complete. However, this only causes your emotions to bottle up and they will come out at some point. It is important to allow yourself to feel how you need to feel in your time of grief. Whether you feel angry, sad, or happy, do not feel bad about feeling how you feel.

2. Be open with your professors

Going through grief is tough and it can take a toll on your academics. This is especially true if you will need to take time off to attend a loved one’s funeral. As soon as you know something is going on, talk to your professors and keep them posted on the timeline of classes you will miss. Find out what assignments you need to do and be sure to get missed notes from classmates.

3. Get help if you need it

College is stressful, and adding dealing with grief only adds to this. If you find yourself needing help with your mental health, go to your campus’s health center or counseling services. Temple has Tuttleman Counseling Services which offers free mental health services for students. You can also talk to a trusted professor, an advisor, or another trusted faculty member on campus. These people are there to help you succeed.

4. Surround yourself with loved ones

In times of need, it is important to have your loved ones around you for support. Even if you cannot physically be with them, calling or texting them is a great way to keep in touch with loved ones during your time of need. If you are close with people on campus, get together to have dinner or watch a movie together in your dorm.

5. Take care of yourself

While it may be tempting to help everyone else you know who is also suffering, be sure to take care of yourself as well. Take time each day to do things you love and to treat yourself to time for yourself. Make sure you allow yourself time to eat solid meals and get a hot bath or shower. Taking care of yourself will help your mental health stay strong and will give you the strength you need to help others.

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