We had to come up with reading week, because 'Suicide Week' seemed too harsh. I suffered from actual, physical panic attacks in university under the stress of my honours program. While I agree it can swing too far, not putting so much pressure on people that are largely STILL CHILDREN so they don't off themselves doesn't seem like that much to ask. 
And yes, even in the 1990's, you could get a damn extension for a close relative dying. My grandfather died while I was in college and I was able to take the exam 3 days later so I could attend the service.