How does loss, in its various forms, impact on our health and happiness? Are we ready for our own deaths, or the deaths of the people that we care about?
The School of Health and Social Care is running a week of events from Monday 13th May to help people contemplate these difficult, but important questions. We want to encourage everyone at Essex to talk more openly about death, dying, bereavement, grief and loss.
Why now?
"Death Waits for no man - and if he does, he doesn't usually wait for very long." - Markus Zusak (The Book Thief)
As the above quote from The Book Thief remainders us, death and loss affects everyone. For this reason, we all need to be prepared, no matter how unsettling we find it as a topic of conversation. We have chosen this specific week because it coincides with both 'Dying Matters' and 'Mental Health Awareness' Week.
What's happening?
The week will begin with pop-up magic performances at our Colchester campus designed to get people talking about death and dying.
On Wednesday, there will be a seminar on the topic of 'Let's Talk About Loss' (10am to 3pm). The seminar will include a keynote speech from Beth Rowland, founder of the UK's first support network for bereaved young people. This will be followed by a Schwartz Round (a group reflective discussion designed to explore the emotional aspects of work and life).The seminar will take place in the University's new STEM Centre. Refreshments and a light lunch will be provided. Places are limited, so please book a ticket on Eventbrite as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
On Friday, there will be a session on 'Death & Dying: Beliefs & Traditions across Religions & Cultures'. This two-hour event will focus on the different beliefs and traditions related to death. The event will include several short talks. There will also be an opportunity to discuss the cultural and religious aspects of death and dying in a safe and supportive environment. There's no need to book, just come along to the Hex at 10am on Friday 17th May.
The week will finish with a special performance of Grandma on the Moon at the Lakeside theatre by the AZ2B Theatre Company (2pm to 3.15pm). Although this is a FREE performance, you will still need to book a ticket to secure your seat.
For full details, and the latest updates about the week, please visit our website.
If you cannot get to one of our events, you can still be involved in the week. Every day, we will be publishing a new article to our website. Please read, comment on, and share these articles.
Who is running this week?
The Psychology of Loss Week is being organised and run by the School of Health and Social Care and Organisational Development, in partnership with the Hunnaball Family Funeral Group.
If you any questions, or want to be more deeply involved in the week's activities, please contact us.