Freshman Southern University cheerleader dead after suicide post
As the nation enters Mental Health Awareness month, we’re reminded of how far we have to go when checking on the mental state of our closest friends and family.
19-year-old Arlana Miller, a freshman cheerleader at Southern university wrote an alarming post on Instagram, which was flagged to the Louisiana-based HBCU.
In a statement, the university shared that it received notice of the post on Wednesday night, and that it ‘ultimately led’ to Miller’s death. There has not been a public release on the cause of Miller’s death.
“We mourn the loss of Alana Miller, a freshman Southern University Cheerleader,” the school’s statement said. “On May 4, 2022, at approximately 9 PM, Southern University Athletic Department was notified of a social media post which ultimately led to this unfortunate announcement.”
Roman Banks, Southern University’s director of athletics wrote a tweet about Miller and mental health on Thursday.
“Jaguar Nation it has been a very tough day, please pray for our Jaguar Family as we mourn the loss of Arlana Miller,” he said. “Anyone who needs to talk my door is always open. Please check on your loved ones as mental health is REAL and depression is REAL. Gone [too] soon.”
“Arlana made an impact on our team in a short time,” said cheerleading coach Floyd Sias. “She was extremely dedicated to her sport, a tremendously hard worker, and a warm and engaging young woman. She will be missed.”
If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), text “STRENGTH” to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741 or go tosuicidepreventionlifeline.org.
