There is no manual for mourning. Everyone grieves in their own unique way.
Death is part of life, but that does not lessen the impact it has on your life. The sadness can be so overwhelming that it may feel like your whole world has collapsed and seems like life has lost all its luster. Your concentration can drop, which in turn can affect your study results. You may feel empty and aimless, angry, withdrawn, or confused still. At first, people are caring and concerned, but after a while, it can seem like no one has room for your grief anymore. The sadness is something that stays and that is normal. There is no manual for mourning. Everyone grieves in their own unique way. A grief group of students who have experienced something similar can offer you support.
What is the Mourning Group? The group consists of a 1 on 1 intake moment with Lenneke the facilitator of the group. And six to eight group sessions, in which you can share your experiences with loss. Lenneke occasionally provides background information on aspects of grief.
The purpose of the mourning group is to share stories and find recognition in the emotions and experiences of others, within a free and safe space for every participant.
Is this the place for me? The group is open to every student in Amsterdam, regardless of background or belief.
You can register by sending an email to newconnective@vu.nl.
The dates for the group, including the application date, are:
Application date: December 15
Intake 1: Monday January 6
Intake 2: Monday January 13
Session 1: Monday January 20
Session 2: Monday February 3
Session 3: Monday February 10
Session 4: Monday February 17
Session 5: Monday February 24
Session 6: Monday March 3
Session 7: Monday March 10
Session 8: Monday March 17