Living with Loss offers comfort and connection for grieving students

By Paige Martin

For many students, grieving while in college can feel isolating. Between classes, social obligations, and being away from family, finding space to process loss can be difficult.

The Living with Loss is a grief support group offered to students to offer support to those who have experienced loss.

The group is run by Laura Shea, Assistant Director of Counseling Services, and Brittany Lorgeree, Campus Minister for Community Engagement.

Senior Esther Minery, a current member, said the program provided her with much-needed comfort during a challenging time after her father died.

“Grieving in college is hard, you’re away from family and balancing school and social life,” Minery said.

Minery joined the group after realizing that Stonehill provided a community where students experiencing grief could connect and heal together.

“Living with Loss is a peer support group co-facilitated by Counseling Services and Campus Ministry. It provides peer support, education on grief, self-care, and resources,” said Laura Shea, Assistant Director of Counseling Services and co-facilitator of the group.

According to Shea, what sets Living with Loss apart from other support options on campus is its peer connection.

“What makes this group different is the emphasis on peer support. While Brittany and I co-facilitate, a lot of the support and empathy comes from fellow students,” Shea said.

The group is co-facilitated by Brittany Lorgeree, Campus Minister for Community Engagement, and is a collaboration between Campus Ministry and Counseling Services.

Shea said this partnership offers a holistic approach to supporting students.

“Having both mental health and spiritual perspectives in the room can be helpful because grief can sometimes affect both areas,” Shea said.

Shea did note that students are encouraged to process their grief in a way that feels most comfortable to them.

Minery described what a typical session looks like.

“We start with introductions, then the group decides what to talk about. Someone shares their feelings, and that usually opens the door for others. It’s not structured, but there’s space to discuss anything on your mind,” Minery said.

Shea also noted the group meets every other week for about an hour, and participation is always voluntary.

“There’s no pressure to participate verbally. Some students just observe and listen, which can be really helpful as they process grief,” Shea said.

Minery first learned about Living with Loss through an email.

“I’ve always liked relating to others and helping people through struggles I’ve experienced. When I saw the emails about Living with Loss, I thought it sounded like something I’d be interested in.

It’s a very open and supportive space where you can share how you’re feeling,” she said.

For students who may feel hesitant about joining, Minery offered reassurance.

“It can be scary to be vulnerable, but it’s worth taking that risk. Once you’re there, you realize everyone else is going through similar things. You’re not alone, and the support is comforting,” she said.

Shea emphasized that the group is “empowering and trauma-informed,” allowing students to share at their own pace.

“Students farther along in their grief process can be a powerful presence for others, showing that healing is possible,” she said.

Looking ahead, Minery hopes more students will learn about the program.

“I wish more students knew about the group, even if they haven’t lost anyone. It could be helpful for anyone dealing with grief or supporting someone else who is,” Minery said.

For those unsure whether the group is the right fit, Shea encourages you to reach out directly.

“Students are welcome to schedule a one-on-one session with us first if they feel nervous about joining the group,” Shea said.

To learn more or to register for the Living with Loss group, email Laura Shea at lshea4@stonehill.edu or Brittany Lorgeree at blorgeree@stonehill.edu.