In the wake of the one-year anniversary of Brad Grinnen’s unexpected death, the Waynesburg University Counseling Center is emphasizing its services for dealing with grief. According to Jane Owen, director of the Educational Enrichment Program, Clinical Services and Counseling Center, the office saw an increase in students seeking grief counseling.

The Counseling Center frequently receives visits from students struggling with a myriad of mental health issues, from severe depression and anxiety to general feelings of being overwhelmed.

When it comes to grief related to the death of a loved one, Owen said that the process is unique to everyone. But no matter what, the Counseling Center is equipped to handle it.

“We are all trained in grief,” she said. “We have all experienced grief personally. You know, grief is different—people grieve differently and so what we want to get across most of all is that however you’re doing it, it’s individual. And grief is such a process.”

Whether it is spurred by tragedy or the tensions caused by everyday life, students are always encouraged to visit the office when they are struggling.

“If you’re a student and you are experiencing any type of grief, depression, anxiety, please know that we’re here for you,” Owen said.