The new Netflix series 13 Reasons Why has become a popular topic of conversation for both adults and youth, both online and in person. Many kids will watch this before their parents even know that they have. Yet, parents beware because the content in this is apparently both graphic and at times, disturbing. In fact, the content is so concerning that school boards and even the Canadian Mental Health Association have issued statements cautioning viewers of this series: CMHA National Statement Responding to Netflix Series: 13 Reasons Why.
Personally, I take no pleasure in watching gory or graphic content of rape and suicide and do not see the value in sensationalizing this for the youth of today. However, others argue that this series aims to deter suicide by showing how disturbing this can be. At the least, know what your children are watching and heed the warnings. Mental Health and Suicide are very sensitive topics – not to be taken lightly.