Warning about “13 Reasons Why” TV Series

Dear Parents,

On May 18th the second season of the TV Series 13 Reasons Why is coming out on Netflix. It is a very controversial series of a teenage girl who commits suicide. Please be aware that Common Sense Media states that no child under the age of 16 should watch the program.  Additionally, children over the age of 16 known to have been the victim of bullying or suffering with anxiety and/or depression should not watch it. If you decide that your child may watch the series, I advise that you to watch and discuss the series with them. Here are some talking points. I will also be discussing the series with the students in the Health classes.

Of course, besides watching this program, teens can access other (very) inappropriate and traumatizing material through the Internet. It is very important to monitor their online behavior as best you can and talk to them openly about what they (might) see. Here are some general tips from the New Zealand government about talking to teens about media.

For any questions or concerns please contact me at counselor@baliis.net.

Karin Holley

BIS School Counselor