Resources and support offered through LifeMatters, the university’s Employee Assistance Program, are available during this time of grieving. The EAP offers employees and members of their immediate household (even students who are away at school) up to six free sessions with a master’s-level counselor to talk about a variety of emotional, stress-related, relationship or family concerns, including grief. These sessions can be in person or over the phone.
LifeMatters is available 24/7/365 and can be reached by either calling 1-800-634-6433, texting “Hello” to 61295, or visiting mylifematters.com and using the password “MU1”.
Here are some ways to help cope with grief:
- Acknowledge and express your emotions
- It’s normal to experience a wide range of feelings such as sadness, anger, guilt and confusion. Allow yourself to grieve and express these emotions in a way that feels comfortable for you. Whether it is talking to a trusted friend or family member, writing in a journal, or engaging in creative outlets like art or music, finding healthy ways to express your emotions can be cathartic.
- Seek support
- Grieving can be an isolating experience, but you do not have to face it alone. Reach out to your support network, including friends, family or a therapist. Sharing your feelings and memories with others who understand and empathize can provide immense comfort and help you process your loss. Support groups or online communities dedicated to grief can also be valuable resources for finding solace and connecting with others who are going through similar experiences.
- Practice self-care
- During times of loss, it is crucial to prioritize self-care. Engage in activities that promote your physical, emotional and mental well-being. This could include maintaining a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, prioritizing sleep and practicing relaxation techniques such as meditation or deep breathing exercises. Taking care of yourself allows you to replenish your energy and build resilience in the face of grief.
- Establish Rituals and Honoring Memories
- Creating rituals or engaging in activities that honor the memory of your loss can provide a sense of closure and comfort. It might involve visiting a special place, creating a memorial, or participating in a meaningful event. These rituals can serve as a way to remember and celebrate the life or relationship that was lost, helping you find meaning and healing in the process.
- Adjust expectations and allow time for healing
- Grief is a highly individual process, and there is no set timeline for healing. Be patient with yourself and recognize that healing takes time. Allow yourself to experience the ups and downs of grief without judgment. It is normal for emotions to resurface even after some time has passed. Adjust your expectations and be kind to yourself as you navigate through the healing journey.
Signs of when to ask for help for grief include:
- If your life, work or relationships are being disrupted
- If your feelings are overwhelming and you don’t know how to express them
- If you aren’t sure if the way you are reacting is “normal”
- If you are using alcohol or drugs to cope
Additional grief resources are available on the Employee Assistance Program page and on the LifeMatters website.
