RDP Library: Counselling Services: Navigating Grief

Special Announcement - Workshop Available

Grief Workshop Opportunity - March 2025

The Many Faces of Grief - With Counsellor Brenda Desjarlais

Open to all Students - In this workshop, Brenda will explore the various types of grief and the different stages of the grief cycle, gaining insight into how grief can impact both the mind and body. We will discuss what healthy grief looks like and identify when it may become a cause for concern. Additionally, we will share effective coping strategies to help support you through your grief journey, along with local resources available to assist you. Recognizing that grief is experienced uniquely across cultures, we will also examine how cultural differences influence the grieving process and explore what might be most helpful for you personally. This workshop is grounded in evidence-based practices, ensuring a thoughtful and supportive approach to this sensitive topic.

When: Thursday March 27th | 4:30-6:30pm

Where: Hosted in Room 1007B - Pónokaisissáhta Indigenous Student Centre

Registration Required for both Online & In Person attendance

Register Here

What is Grief?

Grief is a deeply personal and unique experience that affects individuals in different ways. Whether it’s the loss of a loved one, a significant life change, or even the end of an important chapter, grief can leave students feeling overwhelmed, lost, or uncertain. If you are experiencing grief, it's important to remember that you are not alone and that there are resources available to help you navigate this difficult time.

What is Grief?

Grief is a normal emotional reaction we feel after losing someone or something. It can stem from various types of loss, including death, relationships, or life changes. These feelings are part of the healing process, helping us adjust to a new reality. It can include feelings of sadness, anger, confusion, and even numbness. There is no one way or right or wrong way to grief as it is a personal experience. There is no timeline for healing from grief. It can come in waves, and its impacts can be felt physically, emotionally, and mentally. Grief is not a weakness but a normal and natural reaction to loss.

Common Symptoms of Grief:

o Emotional: Persistent sadness, anger, guilt, confusion, anxiety, and numbness (Red Deer City Victim Services).

o Physical: Fatigue, changes in appetite or sleep, headaches, stomach issues (MyGrief.ca).

o Behavioral: Withdrawal from social interactions, avoidance of reminders, difficulty concentrating (Shapes of Grief).

o Memory Issues: Difficulty concentrating or remembering details.

o Guilt & Regret: Feelings of remorse about past actions or unspoken words.

o Overwhelming Tasks: Everyday tasks can feel challenging or impossible.

Sources: Red Deer City Victim Services, MyGrief.ca, Shapes of Grief.

Causes & Triggers

Possible Causes: Grief primarily results from loss, with the most common being death. However, loss can also arise from other major life changes, such as divorce, moving away, or experiencing trauma (Center for Loss & Life Transition). Underlying mental health conditions, unresolved trauma, or sudden traumatic events may amplify grief.

Common Triggers:

o Anniversaries and Special Occasions: Birthdays, holidays, or other significant dates related to the loss can bring up strong emotions.

o Reminders: Certain places, songs, or familiar objects may bring the loss to the forefront of the mind, reigniting the grief (Red Deer City Victim Services).

o Life Events: Major life stressors, such as exams or relationship challenges, can trigger grief (The LifeLine Canada Foundation).

How to Navigate Grief

Grief in the Post-Secondary Environment
For students, grief can feel even more challenging. Adjusting to academic demands, maintaining social relationships, and staying focused on long-term goals can seem impossible while grieving. Additionally, the transition to university or college may feel isolating, especially if you're grieving away from home.

Navigating Grief

Despite these challenges, it's essential to recognize that your emotional well-being matters, and taking care of yourself during this time is crucial. Here are some ways you can navigate grief in a post-secondary setting:

Acknowledge Your Feelings
Grief can stir up a range of emotions, and it's important to accept whatever you are feeling, whether it's sadness, guilt, anger, or confusion. Give yourself permission to feel without judgment. It’s okay to not be okay.

Seek Support
Talking to someone you trust can be incredibly healing. This might be a friend, family member, or counselor. Many post-secondary institutions offer counseling services to help students through difficult emotions. Don't hesitate to reach out to them—they are trained to support you through your grief.

Prioritize Self Care

Grieving can be exhausting, both physically and emotionally. Make sure you’re taking care of your body by eating well, getting rest, and engaging in activities that help you relax. Physical activity, even something as simple as a walk, can be a helpful way to process emotions.

Lean on Campus Resources
Most campuses have support networks for students dealing with grief. These may include student wellness programs, peer support groups, or workshops designed to help you understand and cope with your grief. Check your school’s website or student support office to learn more about available resources.

Find Meaning in Your Loss
Although grief may not have a clear “end,” many people find that it helps to find meaning in their loss. This can mean creating new routines, honoring the memory of the person or experience you’ve lost, or giving back in a way that connects you to your grief.

Set Realistic Expectations
If you’re struggling, be gentle with yourself. Grieving takes time, and during this period, you may find it difficult to concentrate on your studies or manage your responsibilities. Reach out to professors or academic advisors to discuss accommodations or adjustments that may help ease your workload during this time.

Allow for Flexibility in Your Healing
Healing from grief is not linear. Some days may feel better than others, and that’s completely normal. Be open to adjusting your expectations as you move through the process of grief. Remember that it's okay to take breaks and rest when you need it.

Conclusion
Grief is a journey, not a destination. While it may feel overwhelming, know that you don’t have to navigate it alone. Reach out for support, take things one step at a time, and take care of your emotional and physical health as you heal. Your well-being is the most important thing, and there are people and resources ready to support you along the way.