Grief has a way of stopping life in its tracks, and for college students, it can feel especially overwhelming. In the midst of deadlines, exams, social outings, and plans for the future, dealing with the death of a loved one or another form of significant loss can leave you feeling isolated and shocked.
Grief doesn’t follow a straight path; it can hit all at once or sneak up months later. You might find yourself crying in the dining hall, zoning out during lectures, or feeling detached from your usual friend group. These reactions are not only normal, they're human.
So, how do you navigate grief while still being a student?
First, give yourself permission to feel. Suppressing your emotions won’t make them disappear. If you need to cry, vent, journal, or seek solitude, do it without guilt. Speak to your professors or academic advisors. Many are more understanding than you’d think and can offer extensions or support if you’re struggling to keep up.
It’s also important to lean on your support system. Whether it’s friends, family, a therapist, or ASU counseling, talking through your grief with someone who listens can bring clarity and comfort.
Finally, give yourself grace. You might not operate at full capacity for a while, and that’s okay. Take time for yourself, prioritize self-care, and engage in activities or hobbies that bring you peace.
Remember, you're not alone. Myself and others have walked this path too. Take it one day at a time, ask for help when you need it, and know that your pain matters, and so does your healing.
Learn more about grief from ASU Wellness:
https://wellness.asu.edu/explore-wellness/mind/emotional-well-being/grief-and-loss
ASU Counseling offers walk-in appointments and can be a great resource to help navigate loss:
https://eoss.asu.edu/counseling
ASU Student Advocacy can help communicate with your professors, advocate for you, and provide emergency funds:
https://eoss.asu.edu/dos/student-advocacy-and-assistance
ASU offers compassionate withdrawals, to take a semester break, for students experiencing severe illness or death in their family:
https://registrar.asu.edu/forms/medical-compassionate-withdrawal-request
Amy Senkerik
B.S. Biological Sciences, B.S. Global Health