The second season of '13 Reasons Why' was released on Friday, 18 May on Netflix. All 13 episodes are available to view from release. Given how controversial and potentially triggering the show it, it is important to be informed about the show, and where to get further support and information if required.
Key themes in this series are:
- Bullying
- Sexual assault
- Drug taking
- Suicide
- Domestic violence
- Gun violence
- Self-harm
- Serious assault
Young people are going to watch this series and resources have been developed to reduce the negative impacts of being exposed to the challenging content of this series. Here are some resources that can help open conversations with young people, or help you to be informed about how to manage any distress that may come from viewing the series:
- The Mental Health Foundation has a hub – www.mentalhealth.org.nz/13ReasonsWhy – which includes information on where to go for assistance. The Mental Health Foundation and the Office of Film and Literature Classification are also doing an episode-by-episode discussion guide which covers key themes in each episode, including information about helping vulnerable people who may be affected after viewing these scenes, and where to go for more help.
- The Chief Censor has released a guide for parents: Talking with young people about what they’re watching. The guide is available on the Office of Film and Literature Classification’s website.
- ACC have developed a page of key messages on the Mates & Dates website around sexual and dating violence, guidance for talking to young people about these issues and a comprehensive list of support services, including find Support for sensitive claims.
- Netflix have also created a website to assist viewers, their parents and caregivers. This includes a brief video clip message from the cast to encourage helpseeking.
- CASA resources: https://www.casa.org.nz/news/262-13-discussion-points-for-whanau-caregivers-or-professionals-concerned-about-13-reasons-why and https://www.casa.org.nz/resources/53-13-things-to-try-when-you-re-struggling/file