This page was written in collaboration with UKCISA, the UK-based charity committed to supporting international students and the educators, institutions, and organisations that work with them.
Grief is different for everyone. For some people, it can be very emotional and overwhelming. Other people might feel disconnected and numb. Grief can impact your physical health, your relationships, your sense of identity, and your ability to study. There is no right or wrong way to grieve and there is no time frame. Learn more about grief here: What is grief?
Experiencing bereavement when you are studying abroad can be particularly difficult. We spoke to some international students about their main worries and challenges, which include:
- Feeling a lot of pressure to succeed at university even when you are grieving.
- Loneliness and isolation as you are physically distant from family and friends.
- Missing important moments (for example, saying goodbye at the hospital, religious ceremonies, memorial services).
- Feeling guilty for being away from home.
- Being part of a culture that deals with death and grief differently, feeling misunderstood or like you cannot grieve in the way you want to.
- Feeling like you can’t talk about it, or like you are a failure if you need support.
- Financial challenges
- Language barriers – finding it hard to communicate about complex emotions, medical language, or policies/support options.
- Practical worries about losing scholarship, or having your visa taken away.
Advice from international students: what helps in grief?
Thank you to Nivi, Lauren, Wali and Wahab for helping with this resource, and the video below: