National Day of Reflection

The COVID-19 pandemic has been a challenging and unprecedented time for us all. It has brought about great change in our daily lives, and we have had to adapt to a new and unfamiliar environment. Whilst COVID-19 restrictions across the UK are now being removed and life, somewhat, is beginning to return to what it once was, it’s important for us to take note of our wellbeing.

We understand that one of the biggest difficulties faced during the pandemic was the loss of loved ones, and grief during the pandemic has been more challenging to navigate for many people.

The second annual National Day of Reflection is taking place on Wednesday 23 March, organised by Marie Curie, to offer the chance to make time to connect with one another, support those who are grieving, and to remember all the loved ones we have lost during the COVID-19 pandemic.

We want to remind all our students who may be grieving of the support that is available through the Student Wellbeing and Inclusivity Service.

If you would like to speak with us for a friendly chat, we are available Monday-Friday and we can meet with you in person, via Zoom or via telephone. You can email us directly at wellbeing@essex.ac.uk or complete our Wellbeing Appointment Form.

The University Counselling service is on hand to support students who are grieving or experiencing any other difficulties. Counselling provides a safe and confidential space for you to talk, and a counsellor can help you to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, as well as find your own solutions. If you would like to request counselling, you can find all the information you need on our Counselling webpage, including a link to complete a counselling form.

We also have our 24-hour Student Wellbeing Support Line available for all University of Essex students. You can call them at any time if you would like to talk, on 0800 970 5020 (outside the UK: +44 141 271 7168).

Our support services also include Silvercloud, an online CBT resource offering a range of programmes on mental health, wellbeing, and long-term conditions. The University have also introduced Togetherall, a safe, online peer-to-peer mental health community which empowers individuals to anonymously seek and provide support 24/7. To sign up, all you need is your university email address to register as a member of a university or college.

Student Space also have some helpful support information and resources on grief and loss during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Cruse Bereavement Support and The Good Grief Trust are both organisations providing support for anyone who is grieving, via their helpline and online resources.

We want all our students to know that they are not alone, and that the Student Wellbeing and Inclusivity Service is here to listen and support.