13 Reasons Why
Dear families:
There seem to be a million reasons why kids are glued to their devices these days. We want to bring to your attention 13 Reasons Why your child may have been glued to the television recently. We invite you to ask your student if he or she has or is planning to watch the Netflix series titled, 13 Reasons Why.
In 13 episodes the story of Hannah, a teenager who takes her own life, unfolds. She leaves behind 13 cassette tapes describing the reasons causing her to commit suicide. Many of the reasons are related to the actions of her peers at her high school. The show is rated TV-MA (Mature Audiences) and graphically displays the following:
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sexual assault/rape
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bullying and harassment
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cyber-bullying
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domestic and child abuse
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substance abuse
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peer pressure
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sexual identity and orientation crisis
For any aged viewer, the content may be deeply emotional and disturbing. If you decide to allow your child to watch the series, please watch the show WITH your child, having an adult present can be comforting. If already viewed, offer to watch it yourself and talk to your child about the content.
Throughout the nation, mental health providers and school officials are concerned the series romanticizes suicide or provides difficult concepts for young people to fully understand.
If you have questions about 13 Reasons Why, are in need of school or community resources, or if you would like more information on how to talk with your child about topics in the series, contact your school counselor or school social worker.
Kelly Albrecht-OES
Josep Montanola-OES
Joanna Cermak-DLR