I'm really sorry to hear about the loss of your father. Grief is a natural and necessary process, and it's important to allow yourself the time and space to grieve. Trying to suppress or avoid your feelings may not be the healthiest approach in the long run, as emotions have a way of resurfacing if not properly addressed.
Instead of trying to suppress your feelings, consider these strategies to help you cope with grief while also managing your critical exams:
Create a grief routine: Designate specific times during the day to allow yourself to grieve and process your emotions. Set aside 15-30 minutes or more, where you can focus on your feelings and memories of your father. This can help you compartmentalize your grief while allowing you to concentrate on your studies during the rest of the day.
Talk about your feelings: Find someone you trust, such as a friend, family member, or counselor, with whom you can share your thoughts and emotions. Talking about your grief can be cathartic and might help you process your feelings better.
Practice self-care: Make sure you're taking care of yourself physically and emotionally. Ensure you get enough sleep, eat well, and engage in some form of physical activity. These activities can help you manage stress and emotions better.
Set small study goals: Break down your study material into manageable chunks. Set realistic and achievable study goals for each day, which can give you a sense of accomplishment and progress without overwhelming yourself.
Seek support from your school: If you're finding it particularly challenging to balance your grief and exams, consider reaching out to your school or educational institution. They may be able to provide some support or accommodations during this difficult time.
Mindfulness and relaxation techniques: Engage in mindfulness practices or relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. These practices can help reduce stress and bring some calmness during intense emotions.
Prioritize self-compassion: Be kind to yourself and remember that it's okay to have ups and downs during this period. Don't be too hard on yourself if you're finding it tough to concentrate or if you're experiencing strong emotions.
Memorialize your father: Find a way to remember and honor your father during your study breaks. Create a small memorial or keep a picture nearby to remind you of his memory and the love you shared.
If you find that grief is severely impacting your ability to function or study, it might be beneficial to speak with a grief counselor or therapist. They can provide support and strategies to navigate through this challenging time while still focusing on your studies.
Ultimately, grief is a personal journey, and there's no right or wrong way to go through it. Take the time you need to heal and remember that seeking support and understanding from others can be incredibly helpful during this process.