The University of Georgia (UGA) community has faced numerous challenges over the years, including the tragic loss of students. The death of a student can be a devastating event, affecting not only the family and friends of the deceased but also the entire university community. In response to such tragedies, UGA has established a range of support services and resources to help students, faculty, and staff cope with their grief and navigate the healing process.
Support Services for Students
The University of Georgia recognizes that the loss of a student can have a profound impact on the campus community. To provide support and guidance, UGA offers various services, including counseling, academic accommodations, and emotional support. The University Health Center provides counseling services, including individual and group therapy sessions, to help students process their emotions and manage their grief. Additionally, the Office of the Dean of Students offers support and resources to students, including academic accommodations, such as extensions on assignments or exams, and connections to campus resources.
Counseling and Psychological Services
The University of Georgia’s Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) provides confidential counseling services to students, including individual and group therapy sessions. CAPS also offers crisis intervention services, which provide immediate support and guidance in the event of a student death. The CAPS team is composed of licensed therapists and counselors who are trained to address a range of mental health concerns, including grief, anxiety, and depression. Students can schedule an appointment with CAPS by calling (706) 542-2273 or by visiting the CAPS website.
| Support Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) | Confidential counseling services, including individual and group therapy sessions |
| University Health Center | Medical services, including mental health support and referrals to community resources |
| Office of the Dean of Students | Academic accommodations, emotional support, and connections to campus resources |
Resources for Faculty and Staff
The University of Georgia also recognizes that faculty and staff may be affected by the death of a student. To support faculty and staff, UGA offers various resources, including counseling services, guidance on supporting students, and connections to campus resources. The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) provides confidential counseling services to faculty and staff, including individual and group therapy sessions. Additionally, the Office of Faculty and Staff Development offers guidance and support to faculty and staff on how to support students who are grieving.
Guidance on Supporting Students
Faculty and staff play a critical role in supporting students who are grieving. The Office of Faculty and Staff Development provides guidance and resources to help faculty and staff navigate this complex issue. This includes strategies for creating a supportive classroom environment, such as allowing students to share their feelings and concerns, and referring students to campus resources, such as CAPS or the University Health Center. Faculty and staff can also reach out to the Office of the Dean of Students for support and guidance on how to support students who are grieving.
- Strategies for creating a supportive classroom environment
- Referring students to campus resources, such as CAPS or the University Health Center
- Guidance on how to support students who are grieving
Memorialization and Commemoration
The University of Georgia recognizes the importance of memorializing and commemorating students who have passed away. The UGA Memorial Committee works to create a lasting tribute to students who have died, including the creation of a memorial garden on campus. The committee also provides support and guidance to families and friends of the deceased, including assistance with planning memorial services and creating a memorial fund.
Memorial Services and Funds
The University of Georgia provides support and guidance to families and friends of the deceased on planning memorial services and creating a memorial fund. The UGA Memorial Fund provides financial support to families and friends of the deceased, which can be used to cover expenses related to memorial services, such as funeral costs or travel expenses. Additionally, the UGA Memorial Committee provides guidance and support on planning memorial services, including assistance with venue selection, catering, and other logistical details.
- Planning memorial services, including assistance with venue selection and catering
- Creating a memorial fund to support families and friends of the deceased
- Providing financial support to families and friends of the deceased
What support services are available to students who are grieving?
+The University of Georgia offers various support services to students who are grieving, including counseling services, academic accommodations, and emotional support. Students can reach out to the University Health Center, the Office of the Dean of Students, or Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) for support.
How can faculty and staff support students who are grieving?
+Faculty and staff can support students who are grieving by creating a supportive classroom environment, referring students to campus resources, and providing guidance and support. Faculty and staff can also reach out to the Office of Faculty and Staff Development for guidance and resources on how to support students who are grieving.
What resources are available to families and friends of the deceased?
+The University of Georgia provides various resources to families and friends of the deceased, including support and guidance on planning memorial services, creating a memorial fund, and providing financial support. Families and friends of the deceased can reach out to the UGA Memorial Committee for support and guidance.
