Grief is a natural process that people experience in response to loss. Everyone processes grief differently, so prioritising self-care is essential during this time.
Grief can often affect concentration, making it difficult to focus on assessments and meet deadlines. For students new to university life, adjusting to a new environment while establishing support networks can already be challenging. Adding grief or bereavement to this adjustment period can amplify feelings of overwhelm.
The stages of grief—denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance—are often referenced. However, it is important to remember that these stages are not linear. It is normal to move back and forth between different stages during the grieving process.
What Support Is Available?
- Student Advice: Student Advisors can provide guidance and support to help you consider your situation to help you safeguard your academic performance and your wellbeing. You can contact Student Advice via MySussex or visit the Student Centre (Monday to Friday, 9 am–5 pm). Advice can be provided by email, telephone or by scheduled on-line or in-person appointments, just let us know what suits you best.
- Exceptional Circumstances: Self-certification forms can typically be used multiple times for grief or bereavement related to someone close to you.
- Therapy: Sign up for an initial assessment to access up to six free counselling sessions.
- Grief and Loss Support Group: Meets on the first Friday of every month, 12 pm–2 pm, in the Quiet Room at the Meeting House. Led by Chaplain James Croft, this group provides a space to share experiences or simply find support—sharing is optional.
- Togetherall: this is an online anonymous platform where you can seek peer led support from other students across the world.