Grief and Loss
Understanding Grief and Loss
Grief is a normal and natural reaction to loss. College students can
experience many losses, from the death of a loved one to the loss of a
significant relationship. Other losses can occur as students experience
change.
Symptoms of Grief and Loss
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denial, shock, numbness
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emotional release, such as crying
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reactive depression which includes feeling loneliness, isolation, hopeless,
panic, feeling overwhelmed, confused, fearful, remorse, regret, and anger
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physical ailments such as headaches, colds, nausea, and hypertension often
increase
Helping Others with Grief and Loss
Individuals who are grieving can benefit from the support of others.
Some guidelines for helping someone who is grieving are:
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Take some kind of action - a phone call, a card, a hug, attend the funeral
- offer specific help.
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Be available - allow the grieved time to talk without being judgmental.
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Be a good listener - avoid telling them what to do or feel or using clichés
such as "You have to move on," "It’s really the best thing."
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Be patient - grievers have to talk to heal and, many times, it is easy
to be impatient.
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Encourage them to take care of themselves.
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Accept your own limitations - some situations are hard to handle and may
require professional assistance.
If you or someone you know is experiencing grief or loss and needs professional
assistance, you may call Counseling and Career Services (782-5475) or a
local mental health center for an appointment.
Courtesy of University of Alabama
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