Freshman Southern University cheerleader dies after posting an alarming social media message

A Freshman at Southern University athlete passed away this week after posting an alarming post on social media said authorizes in Baton Rouge.

Arlana Miller via Instagram @Arlana Miller

Arlana Miller was a 19-year-old from Texas and a member of the Southern University Cheerleading squad. In a statement released by Southern University's President-Chancellor Ray L. Belton on Thursday, he states: "On May 4, 2022, at approximately 9PM, Southern University Athletic Department was notified of a social media post which ultimately led to this unfortunate announcement. Our entire campus community is deeply saddened by the untimely death of Arlana Miller, a freshman who was majoring in agriculture on the Baton Rouge campus.”

Statement posted on Southern University's Twitter Page.

The University Health Department stated that Arlana died shortly after making a post on social media. Allegedlyin her last post, she mentioned death and her history with suicidal thoughts. Though it was removed from her page, screenshots of the post were circulated on social media. Her mother has since created a social media page as a tribute to her daughter and bringing awareness to mental health. She referenced struggles over the past year with school, Covid-19 and tearing her ACL.

Arlana Miller via Instagram @lanaawanna

The athletic department added to their statement that her death occurred during Mental Health Awareness Month, "a time to raise awareness of mental or behavioral health issues and to help reduce the stigma so many experience." Counseling is available for all students and student-athletes.

If you or someone you know needs help, call 1-800-273-8255 for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. You can also text HOME to 741-741 for free, 24-hour support from the Crisis Text Line. Outside of the U.S., please visit the International Association for Suicide Prevention for a database of resources.