By now everyone has heard of the Netflix series “13 Reasons Why” based on a widely known fictional novel. Like other mental health clinicians this show concerns me because it not only glorifies or romanticizes suicide but is also inaccurate in many places. I appreciate the fact it raises suicide awareness and many struggling adolescents might seek help rather than copycat the behavior as some fear. The New York Times has an article about the concerns of families of teens at suicide risk as well as an article about the warning Netflix has added to the beginning of 13RW.
The National Association of School Psychologists has released 13RW Talking Points. If your teen has viewed this or plans to view this series I encourage you to watch the show with them and start a dialogue about the show’s content.
