At some point in everyone’s life, a person will experience grief, and on Monday, August 30, it was National Grief Awareness Day.
According to National Today, Angie Cartwright created the national holiday back in 2014. Cartwright was trying to express the facts on how to cope and the factors that go into the grieving process.
Sinclair has some options/resources for anyone going through a difficult time. Emily Hudson, a Mental Health Counselor at Sinclair, is one of these resources. Hudson has a background in psychology, social work and is an Independently Licensed Social Worker (ILSW).
“I think it’s so important to bring more awareness to the process of grieving,” said Hudson. “Many people are not able to fully grieve the losses in their lives and the more it is talked about the more space people will be given to work through their grief.”
SAMHSA provides a variety of information on its website that helps support the mission of helping people through the grieving process. Limiting the consumption of news coverage, for example, is a point discussed on the webpage that is helpful to relax.
When asked what students and faculty need to know about support options for the bereavement process, Hudson had this to say.
“Students can reach out to Counseling Services to schedule an appointment to talk to one of our Counselors. If the student wants information about counselors in the community, we can provide those referrals as well,” said Hudson.
There are alternative options if people are not on campus though.
“If a student is experiencing a crisis outside of our business hours, they can call Crisis Care at 937-224-4646, they can text the crisis text line by texting ‘HOME’ to 741741. Students can also call our office and select the option to be connected to a counselor immediately and they will be connected to a company that we are partnering with to provide after-hours support for our students,” said Hudson.
OhioHealth is another organization that helps people cope and overcome through support groups, counseling, and art therapy for those that are struggling with grief and sadness. Hudson provided insight into what people can do if they suspect someone is coping with an unfortunate situation and want to help.
“I think just checking in with someone can make a big difference. Being there for someone to listen to them and what they are going through and validating their feelings. Helping people get connected to resources that may be helpful for them. I think in the end it’s all about being there for someone and showing them that someone cares,” said Hudson.
People may feel emotionally unstable within the process of grieving. There have been some misconceptions that have left people uncertain and upset. Hudson explained that there is a cure for the misconceptions that some may have about the grieving process.
“That time heals all wounds. I think sometimes people want their lives to go back to what it was before the loss and sometimes that is not possible. Instead, you learn how to manage and carry your grief and you form a new life without the person you lost. Some wounds will never heal, and that’s ok, you just find better ways to carry the losses,” said Hudson.
Dealing with grief can be a lot, luckily there are a variety of resources here at Sinclair and external resources within the community. Do not be afraid to reach out for help.
Carlos Mathis
Reporter