Living with grief, finding a new purpose
Karina Sharma is a third-year PharmD candidate at the Larkin University College of Pharmacy.
Losing a loved one is not easy. Especially when that loved one is a parent. Last year, I unexpectedly lost my dad. A part of me was lost when he left us. I have never felt so empty and helpless in my life. It was difficult for me to accept the fact that he was gone and will never come back. Pharmacy school is already quite challenging by itself, and when something like this happens, one is bound to be affected.
Balancing my classes in a block system was difficult. Every other week I would have an exam. The content in itself was not overwhelming, but being able to concentrate on studying was the hardest part for me. Through this difficult journey, I learned to look out for myself and take breaks when necessary.
At the end of the day, one must do what is best for their own well-being. Below are the four ways I have focused on my mental health, which has helped me find a new purpose.
1. Prioritize tasks and manage my time
Being in pharmacy school has taught me to manage my time well. I make time for studying, self-care, hanging out with friends and family, and hobbies. I delegate each task based on importance and timing. I carry my planner with me at all times and, whenever I need to do something, I write it down. After that I set up all the tasks on my phone using the calendar, which reminds me every day of the tasks that I need to complete. This skill is bound to not only help in grad school but in life as well.
2. Spend time with friends and family
Through my loss, I have learned how important it is to spend time with loved ones. You never know what is bound to happen in the future, and it is best to live each moment with positivity and appreciation. I try my best to visit all of my family members and friends whenever I get the weekend off or during any type of holiday.
3. Do what makes you happy
It is important to enjoy what you are doing. I found my purpose within pharmacy and through personal experiences that I want to provide the best patient care that I can as a future pharmacist.
4. Enjoy the process and celebrate every achievement, whether big or small
There isn’t that much free time when you are in pharmacy school. But being able to celebrate after every exam or end of block makes the journey more enjoyable, and there’s always something to look forward to. After every quiz, presentation, and exam I try to plan something fun to do even if it’s something small like going out to dinner with friends or planning a weekend trip.
Using grief as a driving force to work harder
My dad always valued happiness in life. He taught me to enjoy every moment. He may have left us, but his aura will always remain with me. This journey inspires me to share my experience with everyone, to share an important message. That important message is to never give up, no matter how difficult the circumstances are.
If you face a similar situation, like me, you can do this. You can succeed.