my student died in a car accident

[somemama]

I am a HS teacher and one of my students died last week in a car accident.

He was a quiet, shy kid, and I didn't even get to know him as well as I would have liked to, but just the fact that he was my student and now he is gone has left me quite depressed this week.

I went to his funeral Tuesday--it was a very nice funeral. And I had my other students write notes of condolence to his parents--so I have done some things for "closure."

I also feel guilty--he was on his way to MY class. He wasn't speeding and he was wearing his seat belt, but for some reason he crossed the center line (perhaps fell asleep?) and hit a pickup truck head-on. He died at the scene.

I have a 3 m.o. and perhaps some of my depression is ppd but this really has me down, as well. Just needed to say this; thanks for reading.

[emmaline]

that is so tragic, of course you feel down

[MamaOui]

I ----------------------------------

[lisamarie]

I am so, so sorry to hear about your student. Grief can be so complicated, especially with feelings of guilt and all the "what if's". Maybe talking with your class and some of the other teachers at your school can help with these feelings. I'm know that you are not alone. Please take care of yourself during this time.

Sending much love and healing~

Lisa

[susan61]

My condolences to you mamajulie. How tragic. Please take care of yourself at this time in particular. Let yourself feel whatever comes up and you'll ride it. Keep in touch with the boards - we're here for you.

[Carmen]

Mamajulie-

My husband is also a high school teacher (18 years now) and has gone through more times than should be possible what you have described. The most recent was last year when a former student of his who was in remission from her leukemia died from it.

I feel for you and as parents we are able to imagine even more stongly what it would be like to lose our children. You are in my thoughts during this time.

[Ms. Mom]

What a horrible and tragic thing to have happened. I think it's always a shock when someone we know casually like that dies. I think being severly depressed is normal.

My friends 5 yo. died last December and I could barely smile through the holiday season. It was just so much for me to think of.

As for you're guilt because he was comming to your class. I won't tell you how to feel. You're going to have to move through these emotions at a comfortable pace for you. However, keep in mind that life is a randon act of events. We have no control over these events.

I wish you peace as you work through this greif.

[JessicaS]

Sometimes tragedy can trigger PPD, I was fine for awhile after my dd was born but then a series of losses kind of sent me deep into depression.

Please take extra good care of yourself...dealing with grief is very difficult when you have a child to care for. Maybe your dh can watch your baby while you go for a walk or just sit and think.

[french*girl]

{{{Mamajulie}}}

I am so sorry! You are in my thoughts.