When Nothing Matters Anymore: A Survival Guide for Depressed Teens, revised & updated edition

On April 8, 1994, Kurt Cobain ended his long struggle with depression and chemical dependency by taking his own life. His suicide profoundly affected millions of fans around the world who identified with the music of Kurt and his band, Nirvana. Bev Cobain is Kurt's cousin, and this powerful book is her way of dealing with his death—and reaching out to teens with a life-saving message: You don't have to be sad, discouraged, or depressed. There is help and hope for you.

Full of solid information and straight talk, When Nothing Matters Anymore:

• defines and explains adolescent depression
• reveals how common it is
• describes the symptoms, and
• spreads the good news that depression is treatable.

Personal stories, photos, and poetry from teens dealing with depression speak directly to readers' feelings, concerns, and experiences.

Teens learn how to recognise depression in themselves and others, understand its effects, and take care of themselves by relaxing, exercising, eating right, and talking things over with people who care. The author also tells about treatment options, presents the facts about therapy, explains the differences between various types of helping professionals (psychiatrists, clinical psychologists, physicians, counsellors, etc.), discusses medications, and more.

This book isn't just for teens who have been diagnosed with depression. It's for any teen who feels hopeless, helpless, and alone. Clear, encouraging, and matter-of-fact, it's also recommended for parents, teachers, and counsellors who want to know more about teen depression.

"If there is a “light” way to broach the subjects of depression and suicide, Cobain seems to have found it. The cousin of legendary rocker Kurt Cobain who suffered from bipolar disorder and killed himself in 1994, the author presents an easily understood and nonjudgmental discussion of what depression means, the types of depression, and how young people can help themselves or talk with others about it. Cobain has provided a nice pass-along for youth workers who might suspect depression in a young person."
- Youth Today magazine

"The most positive book on depression one could read…should be available to all teens."
- Voice of Youth Advocates

"Its honest, anecdote-filled treatment of the subject (apart from the book’s telling origins) make it a no-brainer buy."
- Youthworker