’13 Reasons Why’ sparks conversation on suicide

FORT MYERS, Fla. The jarring Netflix series “13 Reasons Why” has spurred the Charlotte County school district into action.

Based on author Jay Asher’s best-selling novel, the program is narrated by teenager Hannah Baker, a troubled high school student who recorded audio tapes detailing the 13 reasons why she decided take her own life.

Netflix recently placed advisory warnings on the series due to criticism of the show’s graphic depictions of rape and suicide.

The school district will be calling parents to guide them to useful resources and advice for addressing the series at home.

“Unfortunately, some teens may already be vulnerable,” Fort Myers-based psychiatrist Dr. Omar Rieche said. “If a teen has a history of suicide, self-injurious behaviors, cutting, being traumatized, these are teens that can actually be triggered by watching this.”

Suicide is the third leading cause of death among people between the ages of 15 and 24, Rieche said.

“I think parents just need to be honest and open, and talk with their teen,” he said. “Let them know that they’re there to help.”

Watch WINK News reporter Corey Lazar’s full interview with Rieche below:

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