Books for Parents, Teens and Children

When Nothing Matters Anymore by Bev Cobain

In 1994, rock star Kurt Cobain ended his battle with depression by taking his own life. Bev Cobain is his cousin and in this book, she reaches out to teens suffering with depression so they can get the help and support they need.

The Good Teen: Rescuing Adolescence from the Myths of the Storm and Stress Years

Teaches parents about the Five C's: Competence, Confidence, Connection, Character, and Caring in helping teenagers through the journey of adolescence.

A Relentless Hope: Surviving the Storm of Teen Depression

Discusses new and different approaches to the treatment and understanding of teen depression.

When Nothing Matters Anymore: A Survival Guide for Depressed Teens by Bev Cobain, R.N.,C.

This book offers important information to help teens who are suffering with depression.

The Bipolar Child by Demitri F. Papolos MD, Janice Papolos

For any caregiver experiencing life with a bipolar child, Demitri and Janice Papolos's The Bipolar Child will be an indispensable reference guide.

Help Me, I’m Sad by David Fassler and Lynne Dumas

Discusses how to tell if your child is at risk; how to spot symptoms; depression’s impact on the family; teen suicide; finding the right diagnosis, therapist, and treatment; and what you can do to help.

Out of the Darkened Room: Protecting the Children and Strengthening the Family by Dr. William Beardslee

Dr. William Beardslee presents his effective program to bolster suffering parents with strong tools for healing; and most importantly, to promote resilience in their children.

Raising a Moody Child by Mary Fristad and Jill Arnold

This book explains how treatment works and what additional steps parents can take at home to help children with mood disorders — and the family as a whole — improve the quality of their lives.

Beyond the Book, An In-Depth Interview with Mary A. Fristad, Ph.D. ABPP

This DVD explores issues relevant to children with bipolar disorder and their families.

For pre-teens and teens, four young people describe their struggles with bipolar disorder and depression. Includes helpful diagrams and photos.

Harvard researcher Machoian sets out to determine why so many young women seem to emotionally withdraw and to explain how parents and others can help them.

Conquering the Beast Within: How I Fought Depression and Won..and How You Can Too
by Cait Irwin

Irwin tells her story of how the "beast" of depression gradually took over her life, accompanying simple yet eloquent text with her own comic-style drawings.

Depression Is the Pits, but I'm Getting Better: A Guide for Adolescents
by E. Jane Garland

Discusses the symptoms and types of depression, how to get help.

Detour: My Bipolar Road Trip in 4-D
by Lizzie Simon

Simon interviewed six other young successful people with bipolar disorder all between ages 16 and 30 chronicling their stories.

Will's Choice
by Gail Griffith

Four years ago, Griffith's 17-year-old son, Will, attempted suicide. Book discusses the suicide attempt, both and her son's depression and her own struggles with the illness.

The Storm in My Brain by Child & Adolescent Bipolar Foundation .
by bpkids.org

Easy to understand, colorful booklet that speaks to children about how it feels to have a mood disorder.

More Than Moody
by Harold S. Koplewicz, MD

Offers practical advice and guidance to families with children who have depression. Also helps parents distinguish between normal teenage angst and true depression.

Out of the Darkened Room: When a Parent is Depressed: Protecting the Children and Strengthening the Family
by Dr. William Beardslee

Dr. William Beardslee presents his effective program to bolster suffering parents with strong tools for healing; and most importantly, to promote resilience in their children.