Crisis
A crisis is a reaction to a difficult situation. It may involve losing someone or something, or experiencing other difficult events in life. When you find yourself in a crisis, the way you normally handle tough situations is no longer enough.
How you react in a crisis
How you react to a crisis depends on what it is about, what you have experienced previously in life, and the support you receive from people around you.
There is no right or wrong way to react. Some people cry a lot and express their emotions openly, while others keep them more inside. It is common to feel anxiety, worry, fatigue, and to have trouble sleeping. Feelings of despair, loneliness, emptiness, and abandonment may also occur.
Some people need to talk a lot about what happened, while others cannot talk about it at all. This can also vary from day to day. If you are going through a crisis, there may be days when you need to be completely alone, and other days when you need company. In the beginning, you may be in shock and have difficulty understanding what has happened. You may also find it hard to manage everyday life.
What can you do?
- Stick to your routines
Try to sleep and eat properly even if you lose your appetite. Spend some time outdoors every day, and continue being physically active. Taking care of your needs and maintaining routines brings some stability and predictability to your life. - Do things you normally do
Continue with your daily activities as much as possible, even if you don’t always feel like it. Many people benefit from letting everyday life continue as normally as possible. - Participate in your studies to the extent you can
Talk to teachers or study advisors for help in making your study situation easier. - Lower your expectations of yourself
During a crisis, it is common for your energy and ability to concentrate to be affected. Be kind to yourself and do what you are able to manage. - Avoid alcohol and other drugs
They can worsen your well‑being and increase anxiety. - Take breaks from the difficult feelings
Although it is good to let your feelings surface, it is also helpful to sometimes do things that distract you and give your mind a rest. - Talk to others
Turn to friends or family if you need support, company, or help with things you don’t have the energy to manage.
How long a crisis lasts varies from person to person and depends on what has happened. But remember: sooner or later, the crisis will pass.
When should you seek help?
Seek help if you feel very unwell, spend a lot of time thinking about the difficult event, or if you have trouble sleeping, eating, or managing daily life. You can turn to:
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Student Health Services for advice, support, or guidance on where to seek help.
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A primary healthcare centre
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1177 or 1177.se for information or guidance
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Hjälplinjen, a national support line where you can receive anonymous support for issues such as anxiety, worry, low mood, or suicidal thoughts. It is free and available around the clock: 90 390
Last updated: 2026-03-17