Understanding Student Deaths at Princeton University: Causes, Responses, and Mental Health Resources
Princeton University, like any institution of higher learning, is not immune to the challenges of student mental health and well-being. The university has faced tragedies involving student deaths, prompting reflection, action, and a commitment to strengthening support systems. This article examines the circumstances surrounding such incidents, particularly the death of Misrach Ewunetie, and explores the university's response, available resources, and ongoing efforts to promote mental health among its students.
Recent Tragedy: The Death of Misrach Ewunetie
In October, the Princeton University community was shaken by the disappearance and subsequent death of Misrach Ewunetie, a junior at the university. Ewunetie went missing in the early morning hours of Oct. 14. Her family reported her missing on Oct. 16 after not hearing from her. Following an extensive search that began on Oct. 17, her body was discovered on Oct. 20 on facilities grounds behind the tennis courts at the school.
The Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office announced on Wednesday, Dec. 28, more than two months after her body was found on campus, that Ewunetie died by suicide.
An autopsy, conducted by the Middlesex Regional Medical Examiner’s Office, determined the cause of death to be "bupropion, escitalopram and hydroxyzine toxicity." According to the report, Ewunetie had at least 59 pills and pill fragments in her system, and empty pill bottles were found in her dorm room. Bupropion and escitalopram are antidepressants, and hydroxyzine is an antihistamine used to help control anxiety and tension caused by nervous and emotional conditions, according to the Mayo Clinic. Toxicology reports revealed toxic levels of these substances in her system. The report also stated that Ewunetie had a clinical history of major depressive order and anxiety disorder. Furthermore, "journal entries describing past suicidal ideations with plan" were discovered in her dorm room.
In an Oct. 20 press release, the Mercer County Prosecutor announced that Ewunetie, who had been a junior, was found dead behind the tennis courts and that “there were no obvious signs of injury, and her death does not appear suspicious or criminal in nature.” A spokesperson for the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office previously confirmed the autopsy was conducted on Oct. 21.
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University Response and Mental Health Initiatives
Following the deaths of Chang and Lim, administrators and undergraduates formed a working group that published a mental health plan in September that included 32 recommendations aimed at improving and expanding mental health resources for students. In a December update, Rochelle Calhoun, vice president for campus life, wrote that 65% of the recommendations have been implemented, including the November launch of the Counseling and Psychological Services (CPS) Cares Line, which gives students 24/7 access to a counselor by phone. The line had been used 98 times as of Jan. 3, according to Calvin Chin, director of CPS. Administrators acknowledge there is more to be done. More consistent outreach would help to “better normalize the concept of self-care and remove stigma around help-seeking,” she said. She added that “universally adopting more flexible policies to accommodate the complexities of students’ lives could go a long way in reducing unnecessary stress.”
In response to Ewunetie's death and other incidents, Princeton University has emphasized its commitment to the well-being of its students and has taken steps to enhance campus safety and mental health resources. Security was increased on campus after Ewunetie’s death and a separate incident in which a man posing as a worker broke into a student’s dorm room by drilling the door off its hinges. The man left the student a note.
Dillion Gallagher ’23, a SPIA major, said that Princeton students “want the academic rigor, but we want it in such a way that we can also stay healthy and that we can also take care of ourselves.” Lucy McBride ’95, an internal medicine physician, said Princeton doesn’t need to loosen its rigorous academic standards, but she urged the institution to “meet people where they are, which may include taking certain classes down a notch, but it may include taking certain classes up a notch. I just don’t think there’s a one-and-done prescription for well-being.” McBride also recommends that Princeton leaders model good mental health care by taking time off to rest and reflect, as well as talking about mental health in a matter-of-fact way. Mental health advocate Cam Stout ’80 suggests hiring a “mental health ambassador” - someone with their own lived experience who could speak candidly with students. He also recommends seeking out mentors and what he calls a “SEAL team” to provide “support, energy, accountability, and love - sometimes tough love.” Gallagher, who lived in Scully Hall alongside Ewunetie but didn’t know her, credits student advocacy for bringing about the September mental health report. He said, “The administration should be proud that it committed to the things that it did. And as they’ve said, and as most students have said, it’s a step in the right direction, and it’s a big step.
Available Resources and Support Systems
Princeton University offers a range of resources to support students' mental health and well-being. These resources include:
- University Counseling Services: Available at 609-258-3141, providing counseling and support to students.
- Suicide Prevention Lifeline: A 24/7 resource available at 988 or +1 (800) 273-TALK (8255).
- Crisis Text Line: Students can text HOME to 741741 for support in the United States.
- Residential College Staff and the Office of Religious Life: Offering additional support and resources to students.
- CPS Cares Line: Gives students 24/7 access to a counselor by phone.
The Importance of Open Dialogue and Mental Health Awareness
The university emphasizes the importance of open dialogue about mental health and encourages students to seek help when needed. Administrators acknowledge there is more to be done. More consistent outreach would help to “better normalize the concept of self-care and remove stigma around help-seeking,” she said. She added that “universally adopting more flexible policies to accommodate the complexities of students’ lives could go a long way in reducing unnecessary stress.”
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Conclusion
The death of Misrach Ewunetie is a tragic reminder of the importance of addressing mental health challenges within the university community. Princeton University has taken steps to enhance its mental health resources and support systems, but ongoing efforts are needed to promote a culture of well-being and ensure that students have access to the help they need. It is crucial for students, faculty, and staff to work together to create a supportive environment where mental health is prioritized and students feel comfortable seeking assistance.
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