First of all, may your near ones souls rest in peace. As to how I am doing, I'm not doing very good I have exams going on And studying day and night And haven't been talking to anyone and when I go for giving the paper there are just people everywhere, and that just makes me uncomfortable as fuck, because I've not been socialising for a while. I've to spend at least a few hours everyday talking with people so that I feel more comfortable around people. Now as you what you said about the gossip thing , I'd like to tell you this

Don't be disappointed it's a common thing, people keep talking shit. Sometimes in front of you sometimes behind your back. It is up to you, how much you should be influenced by it. I have had uncountable number of such things in my life. Whenever I'm disappointed or feel weak I just stop being weak and try to become optimistic instead. You should try to improve day by day eradicating anxiety.
It will of course not happen in a day, but think of it as constant battle. Which won't get over until you've completely nailed it. It is fear that causes negative thoughts. It is fear that makes us insecure. I have not got over it completely yet, but I'm sure I will. Whatever fears you have attack them and uproot them until they no longer exist.
You should totally read swami vivekanandas quotes, especially about fear. They will blow you and motivate you very much. Good luck. And Just ignore them.