An urgent message from the CT Suicide Advisory Board (CTSAB):
The Netflix original series “13 Reasons Why”, based on a popular novel of the same name, was released on March 31 and has been much talked about, particularly among school-aged youth. The fictional story is a cautionary tale of a young girl’s suicide, and covers other sensitive subject matters as the series progresses such as sexual abuse, rape, substance abuse, mental health, and bullying. The show sensationalizes suicide, focuses on reasons to die vs. reasons to live, and blames survivors, all of which can easily trigger at risk individuals.
Due to the popularity and the subject matter of the series, many national and state organizations have created resources to assist adults in talking with individuals at risk, especially youth, about suicide as it relates to the situational drama that unfolds in the TV series and in general. The CTSAB is providing the information below to assist you in conversations with others about these very serious and sensitive topics.
Suggestions:
- Preview the series prior to permitting youth to view.
- If you consider the series suitable for youth, watch the series with them.
- Watch the series companion piece “13 Reasons Why: Beyond the Reasons” on Netflix for a discussion by cast, producers, and mental health professionals about the series.
- Create a safe, judgment-free zone when talking about the series and the subject matter.
- Discuss Reasons to Live, and how to stay safe. Who are trusted adults to talk with, and where/how to access help.
- Get help- In CT call 211 or 1(800)273-TALK (8255) the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. In an emergency call 911.
Resources:
- 13 Reasons Why Talkpoints from Suicide Awareness Voices of Education & The JED Foundation.
- Resources on the CTSAB: http://www.preventsuicidect.org/
- Learn more about Reducing Access to and Increasing Safe Storage of Lethal Means, Counseling Access to Lethal Means, and Safety Planning: http://www.preventsuicidect.org/reducingaccessandsafestorage/, http://training.sprc.org/, http://suicidesafetyplan.com/Home_Page.html
In Crisis Dial 1(800)273-TALK (8255) or 211 in CT; in an Emergency Dial 911
Commission on Women, Children and Seniors 