Supporting Other Buffs After a Student Death

A guide for ñ students

A student death, especially when a student dies by suicide, can have a deep impact on a campus community. Many students may feel shocked, sad, confused or unsure how to move forward. There is no “right” way to react.

This guide offers simple ways to show support for others, recognize what they might be experiencing and connect with campus support.

What Students May Be Experiencing

There’s no “right” response to a loss like this. Students may feel:

  • Shock, numbness or disbelief
  • Sadness, grief or guilt
  • Anxiety or feeling on edge
  • Difficulty focusing on school
  • Changes in sleep or appetite
  • Disconnection or withdrawal

These reactions can come and go, especially when something reminds them of what happened (like conversations, social media or campus spaces). Some days may feel a little easier, while other moments may bring those feelings back unexpectedly. Everyone responds differently, and it can take time for someone to process a loss like this.

If you know someone who’s struggling, encourage them to communicate with their professors if they need support or flexibility in their classes during this time. Counseling & Psychiatric Services (CAPS) can provide a letter to help start that conversation if needed.

This disruption may be short term, but if it continues to affect your friend, reaching out for additional support can help. Encourage them to call us at 303-492-2277 to get started.

How You Can Support Your Fellow Buffs

During this time, you may be thinking about friends, classmates or roommates who are hurting. Even small gestures can make a difference, and you don’t need to have the right words to show that you care. Often, simply reaching out and being present matters most.

Reach Out
  • “I’ve been thinking about you.”
  • “I’m really sorry this happened.”
  • “I’m here if you want to talk.”
Listen More Than You Fix
  • Let them share at their own pace
  • Avoid giving advice or trying to solve the situation
  • Simple responses like “That sounds really hard” can help
Avoid Minimizing or Rushing

Try to avoid:

  • “At least…” statements
  • Comparing their experience to others
  • Telling them how they should feel
Check In Again

Grief doesn’t end after a few days. A simple follow-up text can mean a lot.

Care For Yourself While Supporting Others

Supporting someone through trauma can be emotionally draining. Taking care of yourself can help you show up in a more sustainable way. It’s okay to step back when you need to.

  • Set boundaries around how much support you can offer
  • Take breaks from heavy conversations
  • Talk with someone you trust about your own feelings
  • Limit exposure to distressing news or social media

When to Consider Additional Support

Many students lean on friends and family after a loss. Professional mental health support may be needed if your friend:

  • Is struggling to keep up with academics or daily life
  • Has ongoing difficulty sleeping, eating or taking care of themselves
  • Expresses hopelessness or talks about harming themselves
  • Is using substances in ways that impact their well-being

Mental Health Support

CAPS is here to support students who may be experiencing impacts from recent events and other mental health concerns. To access same-day appointments and crisis services, call 303-492-2277 or drop-in during regular business hours. CAPS has crisis phone support available 24/7.

CAPS also offers Let’s Talk, which allows students to connect with a counselor for free and confidential drop-in services virtually or in person. Students can also sign up for free workshops to address issues related to grief, anxiety, self-care, relationships and more.

Academic Support

Student Outreach, Advocacy & Support (SOAS) works with students facing challenging situations by connecting them to helpful resources and creating a personalized plan to support their well-being and success. There are three ways to refer a student to SOAS:

Additional 24/7 Resources

  • : Call or text 988 for 24/7 support
  • (LGBTQ+ support): 866-488-7386 or text START to 678678
  • If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911.

This is a difficult time for many people in our community. Take things one day at a time, be gentle with yourself and remember that support is here for you.