In response to the deaths of five Boston College undergraduates since March, University Counseling Services s offering drop-in group conversations for members of the BC community who want to talk and share any feelings regarding the recent losess.
Two sessions have been held so far, and two more are scheduled, on Sept. 19 and 27 at noon in Gasson 001. Lunch will be provided.
All members of the BC community are welcome to join these conversations, even if they were not acquainted with any of the students who died, said Senior Staff Psychologist Emily Kates.
“A lot of people feel that if they did not personally know the deceased, they shouldn’t be having a reaction,” she said. “We are trying to let people know that it is normal to have a reaction to news of any death, and especially multiple deaths, within a community.”
These sessions are meant to provide a space to discuss emotions related to loss and grief as well as how to move forward after these tragic events. UCS staff will serve as facilitators for the discussions and will offer advice on coping skills, psychoeducation on grief, and any additional resources necessary.
“One of the powerful things about groups is that people arrive and realize that they are not alone in their experience,” said Senior Staff Psychologist Johanna Malaga. “That can be very therapeutic.”
“We want to help students talk to each other about these hard things,” said Kates. “Grief can be really isolating for some people so we are trying to help people feel not quite as alone. Community is healing.
“We hope that people come. But even if people don’t come, we hope knowing that we are having these discussions is helpful.”
Christine Balquist | University Communications