Photo Courtesy of Janice Miller
A Southern University freshman penned a gutwrenching letter on Instagram before her body was found last week.
Although details surrounding Arlana Miller’s tragic death remain under wraps, the 19-year-old shared her struggles and fears regarding the pressures of failing classes, being ill and not being mentally stable. She also reportedly foretold her alleged suicide in the heartbreaking message.
“May this day bring me rest and peace. I have fought this urge since my early teenage year. I gave this life all the fight I had,” she wrote. “To everyone who has entered my life, I’m so grateful, and I can only imagine how this may find you. I have been surrounded by people who may have honestly thought that I was okay, but I havn’t been okay for a while.”
“I struggled so much through just this year alone. From COVID to tearing my ACL to nearly failing all of my classes. To the people in my life, I pray you learn to vocalize your feelings and get help, always!!! I failed at that, and I’m afraid it’s too late.”
“I have written so many suicide notes my life, but finally, I’ve reached my end,” Arlana continued.
The beautiful and talented cheerleader also expressed that she longer felt connected to God and that even seemingly strong people needed help.
“I hope this teaches everyone to check on your ‘strong’ friends, be present always! I’m contradicting myself, but NEVER give up!!! I know that I’m letting a lot people down by what I’m about to do. But…truth is I’ve already let down so many people throughout my life, and it just feels unbearable. I’ve lost my connection to God. I’ve been dead inside for too long. To everyone I love, just remember that this is not your fault, and I pray you don’t find guilt in my situation. I always dreamed of becoming so many things that I am today, but they just aren’t enough. I’m not enough. I haven’t felt enough for a while. But I say all this to say. I’m done fighting, My battle is over, and I pray everyone finds peace in that.”
The Southern University student’s cry for help came too late. Now, her peers and family are reeling from her death.
Arlana’s mother, Janice Miller, started an Instagram account to honor her baby girl after the reported suicide.
On May 5, the grieving mother shared a touching tribute and photos of the vivacious freshman on Instagram.
“R.I.P To My Daughter Arlana Miller 💔🕊 As A Mother, This Is Hurting Me, Soo, Much. Maybe I Should Of Check On My Daughter Mental Health. I Feel Like Everything My Fault … I love you & miss you so much, baby girl. My heart is in pieces. 😔💔
#arlanamiller #mentalhealth #suicideprevention #family”
Janice also expressed how much she could hold her daughter again. She hashtagged suicide prevention.
“I Wish I could wrap my arms around you one more time, Baby girl. You didn’t deserve this at all. I’m so sorry 😔💔💔 I Love You always and forever💜 #arlanamiller #heartbroken #mentalhealthawareness #suicideprevention #family”
Southern University’s official cheerleading squad’s Instagram page posted a video collage of Arlana cheering at the school. The footage played while Beyonce’s “I Was Here” played in the background. The 19-year-old displayed her impressive toe touch, back tuck, a winning smile and dance moves. Roman Banks, the athletic director for the school, wrote a poignant message to the fallen Jaguar.
“Jaguar Nation, We mourn the loss of Arlana Miller, a Freshman Southern University Cheerleader,” the post read.
“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. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness of mental or behavioral health issues and to help reduce the stigma so many experience.”
The Baton Rouge-based university is offering counseling services to its students and student-athletes.
“Counseling is available at the University Counseling Center for all students and specifically for student-athletes within the department. 24/7 counseling services are available at Holistic Behavioral Health Hotline. Please call (225)368-9602.”
“We ask for your prayers, love, and support. Our deepest sympathy to The Miller family, SU Cheer, & friends.”
“We love you, Arlana 💛💙 #ForeverJag” Athletic Director Roman Banks & Southern University Athletic Department
#WeAreSouthern #SouthernIsTheStandard #GoJags #ProwlOn”
Our condolences to Arlana Miller’s family and her Southern University friends and cheer team.