13 Reasons Why is originally a novel by Jay Asher, which has been turned into a Netflix sensation co-produced by Disney star Selena Gomez about a traumatic back story of the suicide of Hannah Baker a high school student who left behind 13 tapes indicating why she committed suicide and blaming her peers and guidance counselor.

While the novel is classified a YA novel, the show explicitly shows scenes of drug use, rape, and suicide but includes a disclaimer at the beginning of the episodes .

The show has created a lot of controversy. Many critics say Hannah’s  suicide is too graphic and extreme for the young viewers. Others take issue with the sexual assault, and, still, others are bothered by the blaming and shaming.

Many are saying the show is amazing by portraying the bullying and harassment that many high school students, and, people in general, can relate to and that the extremity is appropriate because some cases of bullying are extreme and can lead to painful trauma and, possibly, suicide. This show just so happens to bring attention to the very sensitive and devastating topic of suicide and bullying.

This show can also persuade the viewers to not be a bystander and to speak for victims and report any unkind actions; this show has brought a lot of attention to the topic and had a lot of young people interested.

Should young adults watch “Thirteen Reasons Why”?

Why                                                              

• Have a deeper understanding words hurt
• Recognize the signs
• Realize the extremity and permanence of suicide
• Bring attention to the sensitive topic
• Have the youth’s attention on a good thing
• Show someone who’s in need of help that it is okay to reach out

Why not

• Suicide and depression aren’t portrayed honestly
• Too graphic for young people
• Can trigger memories for a victim
• Turns suicide into entertainment
• Romanticizes suicide
• Vengeful death
• Doesn’t follow with the novel