My kids won’t be watching 13 Reasons Why, the new series on NetFlix about a teen who kills herself.
It’s not that I won’t let them. It has more to do that they don’t seem to watch anything that isn’t on YouTube.
Would I let them watch it? Sure. It is impossible to hide the fact that suicide is one of the leading causes of death among teenagers.
That should be the nationwide controversy that we are all talking about!
“Evidence shows that providing support services, talking about suicide, reducing access to means of self-harm, and following up with loved ones are just some of the actions we can all take to help others.”
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
Should you let your teen watch 13 Reasons Why? As it is rated TV-MA, they almost certainly shouldn’t watch it without supervision or support.
The 13 Reasons Why Controversy
Did your school send home a warning telling you to make sure your kids avoid the show?
How does that work? Even if they don’t watch it, they might have friends that do.
Whatever you decide, you should at least talk to your kids about it. They probably are already talking about it with their friends.
And see what other folks are saying to help you make your decision:
- Commentary: ’13 Reasons Why’: Addressing the controversy as a critic — and a parent
- Common Sense Media Review of ’13 Reasons Why’
- Tips for parents for talking with their children about 13 Reasons Why and suicide
- Thirteen Reasons Why Talking Points
- TV Review: ‘13 Reasons Why’ on Netflix
- “13 Reasons Why” Netflix Series: Considerations for Educators
- “13 Reasons Why” Netflix Series: How School Counselors Can Help
Keep in mind that while many folks have pitchforks out because of the series, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, the American School Counselor Association and the National Association of School Psychologists suggest using 13 Reasons Why as a teachable moment to initiate a helpful conversation about suicide prevention and mental health.
And that conversation can start even if your kids don’t watch the show.
What To Know About 13 Reasons Why
Although you may have been warned about letting your kids watch 13 Reasons Why, know that the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention states that you shouldn’t “be afraid to have a conversation with your children about the Netflix series and the issues it raises.”
Last Updated on May 4, 2017 by Vincent Iannelli, MD
