13 Reasons Why, Season 2

Netflix premiered the second season of its controversial series 13 Reasons Why on Friday, May 18, 2018. As you may recall from our communication last spring, there are many concerns about tweens and teens watching this series. Considering the timing of this release, the potential for binge-watching and isolated viewing is more prevalent during the summer months.

Parents should become informed about the show’s content before deciding whether this show is appropriate for your child. The actors expressed that the show may not be right for everyone, especially if you are or have struggled with depression, self-harm, or suicidal thoughts. Additionally, Netflix has created a resources page with links to social/emotional supports, information about the show, and a discussion guide with tips for watching the show and ways to talk about the show with your child.

Below are some resources you may find useful. If at any time you or anyone you know shows signs of mental distress or suicide risk, you should contact emergency services and/or a mental health professional immediately. Your division counselor is also available to support students and their families.

Resources for Suicide Prevention and Intervention

• National Suicide Prevention:  1-800-273-TALK (8255)
• Crisis Text Line:  Text “HOME” to 741741
• COPE Team at Our Lady of the Lake
  • 24/7 mental health and substance abuse services, including assessments through the Emergency Department
  • (225) 765-8900 or (800) 864-9003
• THE PHONE - Baton Rouge Crisis Intervention Center’s 24-hour crisis line:  225-924-3900

• Child Adolescent Response Team (CART)
  • Crisis counseling and intervention to children, youth, and their immediate family.
  • (225) 342-8687

Additional Resources

• Common Sense Media (https://www.commonsensemedia.org/) - This nonprofit organization provides unbiased information about current trends in technology and media.
  • Common Sense Media has this brief video, “5 Things Parents Need to Know About ‘13 Reasons Why’ (Season 2).”
• 13 Reasons Why online resource center (https://13reasonswhy.info/)
• “Keeping the Conversation Going:  An Update on 13 Reasons Why” (https://media.netflix.com/en/company-blog/keeping-the-conversation-going-an-update-on-13-reasons-why)
• American Foundation for Suicide Prevention 13 Reasons Why resources center (https://afsp.org/campaigns/talk-about-mental-health-awareness-month-2018/13-reasons-why/)