Five Questions to Ask Your Teen About '13 Reasons Why?'

By now many of us have become aware of the Netflix series 13 Reasons Why, which is a series depicting the experience of a young teenager who commits suicide. Throughout the series the main character shares the various hurts and traumas she has gone through that leads to her decision to end her life. For many people this has been a troubling show to watch due to its graphic content, which includes a detailed depiction of sexual assault and the process of a completed suicide including the detailed depiction of the character dying through suicide.Multiple media outlets have highlighted the creators intent to open dialogue surrounding suicide and not to glamorize the process of dying by way of suicide. However, for many the interpretation and impact of the visual content has had varying responses. For some it has been highly triggering and has increased suicidal ideation. For others it has created curiosity and the desire to open communication about suicide.For all parents even those with the best filters or rules about viewing mature content, chances are your tween or teenager will be exposed to this show in some fashion. Whether viewing it themselves or through interactions with friends and social media, 13 Reasons Why isn’t going away and here are five questions to support you in starting this necessary conversation with your teen or tween.What do you understand about the show?Were there aspects of the show that you personally related to?Is there anything I can do to help support you in understanding the realities of suicide?Have you ever had thoughts like this yourself? Can you help me understand them?Is there anything I can do for you?If you discover your child has struggled with suicidal thoughts or is currently having them, it is important to not dismiss the seriousness of their experiences and these thoughts and to seek out help from licensed professional immediately. Below are resources for parents and children who may be in crisis.If you feel your child could benefit from further professional help Wasatch Family Therapy is here to serve you.National Suicide Prevention Life Line 1-800-273-TALKThe Utah Crisis Line 1-801-587-3000The Trevor Project (LGBTQ Youth) 1-866-488-7386