13 Reasons Why: A Parent's Guide

The Netflix series "13 Reasons Why" has been a topic of discussion among parents, educators, and mental health professionals since its release in 2017. The show follows high school student Hannah Baker as she leaves behind 13 cassette tapes explaining why she decided to take her own life. The series has been praised for its portrayal of teenage mental health issues, but it has also been criticized for its graphic depiction of suicide and its potential to trigger viewers who have struggled with similar issues.

Given the sensitive nature of the topics addressed in "13 Reasons Why," parents may be wondering how to talk to their children about the show and how to protect them from potentially harmful content. This parent's guide will provide information about the series, its potential risks and benefits, and strategies for discussing the show with your children.

Before delving into the specific content of "13 Reasons Why," it's important to establish a foundation of open communication with your children. Having ongoing conversations about mental health, suicide, and other difficult topics can help them feel comfortable coming to you with their concerns. Encourage them to express their feelings and ask questions, and be prepared to listen without judgment. This open dialogue will make it easier to discuss specific aspects of the show and any concerns they may have.

13 reasons why parents guide

Important points for parents to consider:

• Sensitive content: suicide, sexual assault, bullying
• Triggering for some viewers: mental health struggles
• Open communication: talk to your children about the show
• Listen without judgment: encourage them to express feelings
• Establish boundaries: decide if your child should watch
• Watch together: discuss the show as you watch
• Be aware of warning signs: changes in behavior or mood
• Seek professional help if needed: for your child or yourself
• Promote resilience: help your child develop coping mechanisms
• Focus on the positive: emphasize hope and support

Remember, every child is different and what is appropriate for one child may not be appropriate for another. It's important to consider your child's individual needs and maturity level when making decisions about whether or not they should watch "13 Reasons Why."

Sensitive content: suicide, sexual assault, bullying

The Netflix series "13 Reasons Why" deals with a number of sensitive topics that may be difficult for some viewers to watch. These include:

• Suicide: The show's main character, Hannah Baker, takes her own life. The series depicts her suicide in graphic detail, which can be very disturbing for viewers.
  

Details of point: The show's portrayal of suicide has been criticized by some mental health experts, who argue that it could potentially trigger suicidal thoughts or behaviors in vulnerable viewers. It's important to be aware of this potential risk and to talk to your child about it if they watch the show.

Details of point: The show's portrayal of sexual assault has also been criticized by some viewers, who argue that it is too graphic and could retraumatize survivors of sexual assault. It's important to be aware of this potential risk and to talk to your child about it if they watch the show.

Details of point: The show's portrayal of bullying has been praised by some viewers for its realism, but it can also be very difficult to watch. It's important to be aware of this potential risk and to talk to your child about it if they watch the show.

It's important to note that "13 Reasons Why" is a work of fiction. However, the topics it deals with are very real and can be very difficult for some viewers to watch. If you are concerned about your child watching the show, you may want to talk to them about it first or watch it with them so that you can discuss it as you go.

Triggering for some viewers: mental health struggles

The Netflix series "13 Reasons Why" deals with a number of mental health struggles, including depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. These topics are handled in a realistic and thought-provoking manner, but they can also be very difficult for some viewers to watch, especially those who have struggled with similar issues.

If your child has a history of mental health struggles, it's important to be aware of the potential risks of watching "13 Reasons Why." The show could potentially trigger negative thoughts or feelings, or even lead to a relapse. It's important to talk to your child about the show before they watch it, and to watch it with them so that you can discuss it as you go. You can also help your child to develop coping mechanisms for dealing with difficult emotions, such as talking to a trusted adult, journaling, or practicing relaxation techniques.

If your child does watch the show and seems to be struggling, it's important to reach out for help. Talk to your child's doctor or mental health professional. There are also a number of resources available online and in your community that can provide support.

It's also important to note that "13 Reasons Why" is a work of fiction. While the topics it deals with are very real, the characters and situations are not. It's important to help your child understand the difference between fiction and reality, and to remind them that there is hope for people who are struggling with mental health issues.

If you are concerned about your child watching "13 Reasons Why," you may want to talk to them about it first or watch it with them so that you can discuss it as you go. You can also find more information and resources on the show's website: https://13reasonswhy.info/

Open communication: talk to your children about the show

One of the most important things you can do as a parent is to talk to your children about "13 Reasons Why." This will help them to process their thoughts and feelings about the show, and it will also give you an opportunity to address any concerns you may have.

When talking to your children about the show, it's important to be open and honest. Let them know that you are there for them and that you are willing to listen to anything they have to say. You can also ask them questions about the show, such as what they thought of it and how it made them feel. It's important to listen to your child's answers without judgment. Even if you don't agree with their opinions, it's important to respect them.

You can also use this opportunity to talk to your children about mental health and suicide. Let them know that it's okay to ask for help if they are struggling. You can also talk to them about the warning signs of suicide, such as changes in behavior or mood. If you are concerned about your child's mental health, it's important to seek professional help.

Talking to your children about "13 Reasons Why" can be a difficult conversation, but it's an important one to have. By being open and honest with your children, you can help them to process their thoughts and feelings about the show, and you can also help them to stay safe.

Here are some tips for talking to your children about "13 Reasons Why":

• Start by asking your child what they know about the show.
• Listen to your child's answers without judgment.
• Ask your child how the show made them feel.
• Talk to your child about mental health and suicide.
• Let your child know that you are there for them if they need to talk.
• If you are concerned about your child's mental health, seek professional help.

Listen without judgment: encourage them to express feelings

When talking to your children about "13 Reasons Why," it's important to listen to them without judgment. This means listening to their thoughts and feelings without trying to change or fix them. It also means not criticizing or lecturing them.

When you listen to your children without judgment, you are sending them the message that you accept them for who they are, even if you don't agree with their opinions. This can help them to feel safe and supported, and it can also encourage them to open up to you more.

It's also important to encourage your children to express their feelings. This can be difficult for some children, especially if they are not used to talking about their emotions. However, it's important to let them know that it's okay to feel sad, angry, or scared. You can also help them to find healthy ways to express their feelings, such as talking to a friend, writing in a journal, or creating art.

By listening to your children without judgment and encouraging them to express their feelings, you can help them to process their thoughts and feelings about "13 Reasons Why," and you can also help them to stay safe.

Here are some tips for listening to your children without judgment:

• Make eye contact with your child and let them know that you are listening.
• Don't interrupt your child or try to change the subject.
• Avoid giving advice or telling your child what to do.
• Simply listen to your child and let them know that you understand how they are feeling.
• If you are unsure of how to respond, you can always say, "I'm here for you" or "I'm listening."

Establish boundaries: decide if your child should watch

One of the most important decisions you will make as a parent is whether or not to allow your child to watch "13 Reasons Why." This is a personal decision that you should make based on your child's individual needs and maturity level.

If you are considering allowing your child to watch the show, it's important to talk to them about it first. Let them know what the show is about and what to expect. You can also watch the show yourself to get a better idea of its content. It's also important to consider your child's mental health history. If your child has a history of mental health struggles, it's important to talk to their doctor or mental health professional before allowing them to watch the show.

If you decide that you do not want your child to watch the show, it's important to set clear boundaries. Let your child know that they are not allowed to watch the show, and explain your reasons for this decision. You can also offer your child alternative shows or activities that they can enjoy.

If you decide that you do want to allow your child to watch the show, it's important to set some ground rules. For example, you can require your child to watch the show with you so that you can discuss it as you go. You can also set a time limit for how long your child can watch the show each day.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to allow your child to watch "13 Reasons Why" is a personal one. There is no right or wrong answer. The most important thing is to make a decision that you are comfortable with and that you believe is in your child's best interests.

Watch together: discuss the show as you watch

If you decide to allow your child to watch "13 Reasons Why," it's a good idea to watch the show with them so that you can discuss it as you go. This will give you an opportunity to talk about the show's content and to address any concerns your child may have.

• Ask your child questions about the show. What do they think of the characters? What do they think is going to happen next? How does the show make them feel?
  

Details of point: Asking your child questions about the show will help you to gauge their understanding of the show's content and to identify any areas where they may need more support.

Details of point: Talking about the show's content will help your child to process their thoughts and feelings about the show and to develop a critical understanding of the show's messages.

Details of point: Addressing your child's concerns will help them to feel safe and supported and will also help them to process their thoughts and feelings about the show.

Details of point: Talking to your child about mental health and suicide will help them to develop a better understanding of these issues and will also help them to feel more comfortable seeking help if they need it.

Watching "13 Reasons Why" together can be a valuable opportunity to connect with your child and to talk about important issues. By discussing the show's content and addressing your child's concerns, you can help them to process their thoughts and feelings about the show and to develop a critical understanding of the show's messages.

Be aware of warning signs: changes in behavior or mood

If your child is watching "13 Reasons Why," it's important to be aware of the warning signs of suicide. These signs can include:

• Changes in behavior: Your child may become withdrawn, irritable, or aggressive. They may also start to neglect their personal appearance or hygiene.
  

Details of point: Changes in behavior can be a sign that your child is struggling with their mental health. If you notice any changes in your child's behavior, it's important to talk to them about it and to seek professional help if necessary.

Details of point: Changes in mood can also be a sign that your child is struggling with their mental health. If you notice any changes in your child's mood, it's important to talk to them about it and to seek professional help if necessary.

Details of point: If your child starts to talk about suicide, it's important to take it seriously. Talk to your child about their feelings and seek professional help immediately.

Details of point: Giving away belongings can be a sign that your child is planning to take their own life. If you notice your child giving away their belongings, it's important to talk to them about it and to seek professional help immediately.

If you notice any of these warning signs in your child, it's important to take action. Talk to your child about their feelings and seek professional help immediately. Suicide is a serious issue, but it is preventable. By being aware of the warning signs and taking action, you can help to keep your child safe.

Seek professional help if needed: for your child or yourself

If you are concerned about your child's mental health, or if you are struggling with your own mental health, it's important to seek professional help. A mental health professional can help you to understand your child's struggles and to develop coping mechanisms. They can also provide you with support and guidance.

• Talk to your child's doctor or mental health professional. If you are concerned about your child's mental health, talk to their doctor or mental health professional. They can assess your child's mental health and recommend treatment options.
  

Details of point: A mental health professional can help your child to understand their struggles and to develop coping mechanisms. They can also provide you with support and guidance.

Details of point: Suicide prevention hotlines can provide you with immediate support and guidance. They can also connect you with local resources that can help you.

Details of point: A therapist or counselor can help you to improve your mental health and to live a more fulfilling life.

Details of point: Support groups can help you to feel less alone and to develop coping mechanisms for dealing with your mental health struggles.

Seeking professional help is an important step in taking care of your mental health and the mental health of your child. Don't be afraid to reach out for help if you need it. There are many resources available to help you.

Promote resilience: help your child develop coping mechanisms

One of the best ways to protect your child from the potential risks of watching "13 Reasons Why" is to help them develop coping mechanisms. Coping mechanisms are healthy ways to deal with stress, difficult emotions, and challenging situations. By teaching your child coping mechanisms, you can help them to build resilience and to better manage their mental health.

• Encourage your child to talk about their feelings. Talking about their feelings can help your child to process them and to feel less alone. Encourage your child to talk to you, a trusted adult, or a therapist about how they are feeling.
  

Details of point: Talking about feelings can help your child to develop emotional intelligence and to learn how to manage their emotions in a healthy way.

Details of point: Identifying strengths and weaknesses can help your child to develop a positive self-image and to feel more confident in their abilities.

Details of point: Problem-solving skills can help your child to feel more in control of their life and to better manage stress and difficult situations.

Details of point: Taking care of physical health can help your child to feel better both physically and mentally.

By helping your child to develop coping mechanisms, you can help them to build resilience and to better manage their mental health. This will help them to cope with the challenges of watching "13 Reasons Why" and other difficult situations that they may face in life.

Focus on the positive: emphasize hope and support

When talking to your child about "13 Reasons Why," it's important to focus on the positive. Emphasize the message of hope and support that the show ultimately conveys. Let your child know that there is help available for people who are struggling with mental health issues and that suicide is never the answer.

You can also talk to your child about the positive aspects of the show. For example, you can talk about the show's realistic portrayal of mental health issues, its strong characters, and its thought-provoking themes. You can also talk about the show's message of hope and the importance of reaching out for help.

It's also important to emphasize the support that is available to your child. Let them know that you are there for them and that you will support them no matter what. You can also talk to them about other sources of support, such as friends, family members, teachers, and mental health professionals.

By focusing on the positive and emphasizing hope and support, you can help your child to cope with the challenges of watching "13 Reasons Why" and to develop a more positive outlook on life.

Here are some tips for focusing on the positive when talking to your child about "13 Reasons Why":

• Talk about the show's message of hope and support.
• Emphasize the importance of reaching out for help.
• Talk about the show's positive aspects, such as its realistic portrayal of mental health issues, its strong characters, and its thought-provoking themes.
• Let your child know that you are there for them and that you will support them no matter what.
• Talk to them about other sources of support, such as friends, family members, teachers, and mental health professionals.

FAQ

Introduction Paragraph for FAQ:

The following are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) that parents may have about "13 Reasons Why" and how to talk to their children about it.

Question 1: Is "13 Reasons Why" appropriate for my child to watch?

Answer 1: "13 Reasons Why" is a mature show that deals with sensitive topics such as suicide, sexual assault, and bullying. It is rated TV-MA, which means it is intended for mature audiences only. Parents should carefully consider whether or not their child is ready to watch a show with such mature content.

Question 2: What are some of the risks of my child watching "13 Reasons Why"?

Answer 2: Some of the risks of your child watching "13 Reasons Why" include:

• Increased risk of suicide
• Triggering of mental health issues
• Increased anxiety and depression
• Difficulty sleeping
• Eating disorders
• Self-harm

Question 3: What can I do to protect my child from the potential risks of watching "13 Reasons Why"?

Answer 3: There are a number of things you can do to protect your child from the potential risks of watching "13 Reasons Why," including:

• Talk to your child about the show before they watch it.
• Watch the show with your child so that you can discuss it as you go.
• Be aware of the warning signs of suicide and mental health issues.
• Seek professional help if you are concerned about your child's mental health.

Question 4: What are some of the positive messages that "13 Reasons Why" conveys?

Answer 4: "13 Reasons Why" also conveys some positive messages, such as:

• The importance of reaching out for help if you are struggling with mental health issues.
• The importance of being kind to others.
• The importance of speaking up against bullying.

Question 5: How can I talk to my child about "13 Reasons Why" in a way that is helpful and supportive?

Answer 5: When talking to your child about "13 Reasons Why," it is important to be open and honest. Let your child know that you are there for them and that you will support them no matter what. You can also talk to them about the show's positive messages and how they can apply them to their own lives.

Question 6: Where can I find more information and resources about "13 Reasons Why"?

Answer 6: There are a number of resources available online and in your community that can provide you with more information and support about "13 Reasons Why." Some helpful resources include:

• The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK
• The Jed Foundation: https://www.jedfoundation.org
• The Trevor Project: https://www.thetrevorproject.org

Closing Paragraph for FAQ:

Talking to your child about "13 Reasons Why" can be a difficult conversation, but it is an important one to have. By being open and honest with your child, you can help them to process their thoughts and feelings about the show, and you can also help them to stay safe.

If you are concerned about your child watching "13 Reasons Why," there are a number of things you can do to protect them from the potential risks of the show. By following the tips in this guide, you can help your child to stay safe and to develop healthy coping mechanisms.

Tips

Introduction Paragraph for Tips:

In addition to talking to your child about "13 Reasons Why" and being aware of the warning signs of suicide and mental health issues, there are a number of other things you can do to protect your child from the potential risks of the show. Here are four practical tips:

Tip 1: Set limits and boundaries.

If you decide to allow your child to watch "13 Reasons Why," it's important to set limits and boundaries. For example, you can limit how much of the show they can watch each day or week. You can also require them to watch the show with you so that you can discuss it as you go.

Tip 2: Encourage your child to talk to you about their feelings.

It's important to encourage your child to talk to you about their feelings, both positive and negative. Let them know that you are there for them and that you will listen to them without judgment. You can also ask them questions about the show and how it made them feel.

Tip 3: Help your child to develop healthy coping mechanisms.

Coping mechanisms are healthy ways to deal with stress, difficult emotions, and challenging situations. You can help your child to develop healthy coping mechanisms by teaching them how to talk about their feelings, how to solve problems, and how to take care of their physical and mental health.

Tip 4: Seek professional help if you are concerned about your child's mental health.

If you are concerned about your child's mental health, don't hesitate to seek professional help. A therapist or counselor can help your child to understand their struggles and to develop coping mechanisms. They can also provide you with support and guidance.

Closing Paragraph for Tips:

By following these tips, you can help your child to stay safe and to develop healthy coping mechanisms. You can also help them to process their thoughts and feelings about "13 Reasons Why" and to develop a more positive outlook on life.

Talking to your child about "13 Reasons Why" and following the tips in this guide can help to protect your child from the potential risks of the show. By being open and honest with your child, you can help them to process their thoughts and feelings about the show, and you can also help them to stay safe.

Conclusion

Summary of Main Points:

"13 Reasons Why" is a popular Netflix series that has been praised for its realistic portrayal of teenage mental health issues. However, the show has also been criticized for its graphic depiction of suicide and its potential to trigger mental health issues in vulnerable viewers. Parents should be aware of the potential risks of the show and should talk to their children about it before they watch it.

There are a number of things that parents can do to protect their children from the potential risks of "13 Reasons Why." These include talking to your child about the show, setting limits and boundaries, encouraging your child to talk to you about their feelings, helping your child to develop healthy coping mechanisms, and seeking professional help if you are concerned about your child's mental health.

Closing Message:

Talking to your child about "13 Reasons Why" is an important step in protecting them from the potential risks of the show. By being open and honest with your child, you can help them to process their thoughts and feelings about the show, and you can also help them to stay safe. If you are concerned about your child's mental health, don't hesitate to seek professional help.