STUDENTS
Taking Care of Yourself When You’re Grieving
Simple ways to take care of yourself while going through loss, at your own pace.
There is no right way to grieve.
Taking care of yourself doesn’t mean “moving on.” It means giving yourself the support you need, one step at a time.
Key Areas of Support
If things feel heavy, start with small steps:
- Reach out to someone you trust—even a quick message is enough
- Try to stay connected to at least one person each day
- Take breaks when things feel overwhelming
- Focus on one small task at a time
- Give yourself permission to rest
Grief can look and feel different for everyone.
- Sad, angry, or confused
- Numb or disconnected
- Overwhelmed one moment and okay the next
- Tired or unable to focus
- Like things don’t feel “normal”
- Talk to someone you trust (friend, parent, teacher, counselor)
- Write down your thoughts or feelings
- Spend time doing something familiar or comforting
- Get outside, move your body, or rest when needed
- Keep simple routines (sleep, meals, school) when you can
Some people want to talk about what happened. Others don’t. Both are okay.
- Share when you feel ready—not because you feel pressured
- It’s okay to say:
- “I don’t want to talk about it right now”
- It’s also okay to reach out when you do want to talk
You don’t have to figure everything out.
You don’t have to feel better all at once.
- Focus on getting through today
- Break things into small steps
- Be patient with yourself
- Give yourself credit for small efforts
When You Need More Support
- You feel overwhelmed most of the time
- You’re withdrawing from friends or activities
- You’re struggling to get through daily life
- You feel stuck, numb, or disconnected for a long time
- Ask for help – even if you’re not sure how to explain how you feel
Find a Counselor
STUDENT SUPPORT
How to Support Someone Who is Grieving
Helpful information to help guide taking care of others.
Important Reminders
- There is no “right way” to grieve
- You are not alone, even if it feels that way
- It’s okay to not be okay
- Healing takes time
- Asking for help is a strong and important step
Understand More
Grief can take a lot of emotional energy. Taking care of yourself helps you stay supported and gives your mind and body space to process.
You may feel differently from day to day.
Some days may feel harder than others – even weeks or months later.
This is a normal part of grief.
Even though this is your experience, you don’t have to go through it by yourself.
Support from others can make a meaningful difference.
If you’re also trying to support friends, remember:
You can care about others and still need care yourself.
You don’t have to have everything figured out. Taking care of yourself, one step at a time, is enough.
Important Support Information
The NATE Foundation provides organizational response guidance and educational resources. We do not provide direct psychological counseling or crisis intervention services. If you are experiencing a life-threatening emergency, please contact your local emergency services.
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