< Arkansas Children's Blog

Parent’s Guide to ‘13 Reasons Why’

Published date: June 07, 2017

The Netflix original series, ’13 Reasons Why’ has been gaining a lot of attention – both positive and negative. The show deals with a sensitive subject: teen suicide. Greg Adams, program coordinator of Arkansas Children's Center for Good Mourning, says if your child wants to watch the show, to watch it with them. That way, you will be able to talk about what your child sees and thinks about the variety of issues the show addresses. He also advises that if your child is already struggling or is emotionally at risk, then this popular show may not be the thing to watch.

On the subject of suicide, Greg said it’s almost always preventable. Almost all people who die by suicide have some type of significant emotional health problem with depression being the most common. Getting people appropriate mental health support is one of the best ways to help prevent suicide.

Greg said those who are concerned about their loved ones should watch for the following:

  • Look for big behavior or mood changes

  • Listen. If someone has talked about suicide or an intent, get help immediately

  • If you have any concern at all, get help

If your child seems depressed or is having suicidal thoughts, remove any guns from the home and secure medications.

If you are in crisis, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741-741.

For information about Arkansas Children’s Center for Good Mourning, call 501-364-7000 or email goodmourning@archildrens.org.