13 Reasons

13 Reasons Why missed the opportunity to encourage youth to get help.  As bad as things get, there is always hope and help.   For teens struggling with depression, trauma or situational issues, help is available.

13 Reasons Why main character faces bullying; each individual can stand up to this behavior with support from others. While 13 reasons demonstrate a fatal consequence to bullying, there are options available to stop Stigma. Stigma Stop Now! It is ok to seek out help.

13 Reasons Why main character goes through extreme trauma in the form of sexual assault. Trauma has severe consequences when left untreated. Treatment options are available, call 877 928-9062. No individual has to tolerate a rape culture.

13 Reasons Why fails to address individual adaptive problem solving. Adolescent brains are not fully developed.  The prefrontal cortex, used for reasoning, will continue to mature into the 20’s.  What might seem to be ok at age 15 may seem very different at age 20.

13 Reasons Why does not show teens coming together to face a common problem. Finding power and voice is important for all young people developmentally.

13 Reasons Why shows self-mutilation without providing alternatives to cutting. Substance abuse was also portrayed as a way to connect socially and avoid pain. Through openness and discussion while working with a counselor, youth can find alternatives to cope with inner pain.

13 Reasons Why shows individuals having flashbacks related to traumatic experiences. Trauma manifests itself differently in each individual. Open discussions without judgment are an important part of growing up and throughout life. Counselors are available to process traumatic events.

13 Reasons Why shows what can happen when a young person is the victim of body shaming. The show missed an opportunity to have peers come together when this occurs and push back against a culture where peers are in competition with one another over their bodies. Self worth and body image are a struggle at any age and teaching our youth that we are more than just our bodies is an important part of the growing up.

13 Reasons Why does not provide resources or methods for continuing the discussion of suicide. Talking about suicide or any self-harm is not a bad thing and we must keep an open dialogue in order to prevent suicide.

13 Reasons Why misses an opportunity to show multiple caring adults processing the tragedy of suicide. If you or a loved one has experienced this, talking with a counselor or a support group may help with the grief process. More information can be found here 877 928-9062 or www.frontierhealth.org.

13 Reasons Why showed graphic images of completed suicide, which itself can be very traumatic for a viewing audience.  Frontier Health’s Crisis line is available any time.  Call 877 928-9062.  Or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK.

13 Reasons Why does not provide an appropriate viewing age and only provided a disclaimer for some episodes.  Parents are cautioned and if your child wants to watch this series, it may be best for you to watch this series first and then with your child. It is important to listen to your child when watching this series.  It will provide the opportunity for you to present the important points that the series missed.  Discussion about tough topics is helpful to children and adolescents, and leaves the door open for future discussion.