She is a nationally recognized speaker and workshop facilitator on issues of depression awareness, suicide prevention/intervention, and family healing following the death of a loved one to suicide. Bev’s own experiences of sexual abuse, panic disorder, alcoholism, major depression, and suicidality are key in her understanding of the struggles of others who struggle with these issues. Kurt Cobain’s suicide was the most public of three suicides in her family, and one that affirmed her determination to help others to heal. Bev was the first recipient of the “Green Ribbon” award, given annually by the National Mental Health Association in recognition of her efforts to help youth cope with depression. She is author of When Nothing Matters Anymore: A Survival Guide for Depressed Teens, (Free Spirit, 1996 & 2006), and coauthor of the acclaimed, Dying to Be Free: A Healing Guide for Families after a Suicide