During the academic misconduct process there are people and resources dedicated to helping you through it. It’s important to acknowledge your emotions as you’re not alone in feeling this way. Many students have faced similar situations and reaching out for support can make a big difference.
Your institution may offer wellbeing and mental health services, like counselling, that are specifically designed to support students during challenging times. These professionals are there to listen, guide and help you navigate things without judgment. You can also turn to friends, mentors or even other students who might understand your perspective. Don't hesitate to ask for help. It’s a sign of strength, not weakness.
Your institution won’t share details of academic misconduct with your family, so you’re the only one who gets to decide if and how you want to share this with them. If you do choose to communicate with your loved ones, being open and honest can help. Explain what happened, share the steps you’re taking to fix things and highlight what you’re learning from the experience. If it feels too difficult, seeking guidance from a mental health professional (either privately or via your institution if they offer this service) can help you prepare for these conversations.
Remember, it’s okay to ask for help and you’re never truly alone in this process.