Greetings Friend!

Thanks for visiting the National Center for the Prevention of Youth Suicide website!  My name is Rebekah Amos, but most people call me by my nickname, Becca Ann.  I am a 16-year-old 2011 homeschool graduate and titleholder in an International Pageant as Miss Teen Maine.  I grew up a singer-songwriter and guitarist, but I was always interested in mental health.  My goal as a pageant winner is to work with the American Association of Suicidology as a spokesperson to youth, and give them, and you, hope that things can be different.  While you might be struggling to feel like you belong, suicide is not the answer.  You never know who one day you may become, but you have to choose life first.  Just ask me.

Feeling hopeless? I've been there.  Blaming myself for a parent's divorce -- yes, I've done that too.  Feeling lonely? I did not notice all those people around me who really liked me and wanted to be my friend.  I attempted suicide myself about a year or more after those feelings started.  See, it's not something that happens overnight.  You may be someone who is considering suicide or maybe you know someone who is, but either way, you can understand that.  After my attempt, I realize my suicidal thoughts were caused by the complicated feelings I was having over a long period of time.  Yes, hopelessness and loneliness were two problems, but the most important thing for me was I had no purpose in life.  I felt like I couldn't take another day because I had no direction; like I would never achieve anything in my life.  But here I am today, thanks to counseling, and I know now there is help available.  May you're going through that right now, going through your own struggles, not knowing where to turn.  Maybe you'd like to talk to someone about it.  The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is there if you need to talk: 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

Whatever your situation may be, always know that you're not alone.  There ARE people out there who care what you're going through and who can help.  But you need to accept the help.

If you have a family member or friend who you think might be suicidal, read (and even memorize) the Warning Signs for Suicide.

For more information on Suicide Prevention, go to the AAS home page.

If you're interested in raising funds for the NCPYS or getting involved in their prevention efforts, check out our Lead a Fundraising Project page.

Lastly, if you have a Facebook profile, don't forget to 'like' the AAS and Miss Teen Maine International pages to keep up to date with the most recent suicide prevention action in real time.

Blessings,

Becca Ann

Miss Teen Maine International