Expert: Netflix’s ’13 Reasons Why’ could help teens in despair

<p>Netflix’s original series “13 Reasons Why” has become a phenomenon among teens and adults ever since it debuted at the end of March. The controversial series tackles such topics as sexual assault, bullying, depression and teenage suicide. Some experts say that the series is important and should be discussed in school.</p>

News 12 Staff

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Apr 27, 2017, 1:11 AM

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Updated 2,820 days ago

Expert: Netflix’s ’13 Reasons Why’ could help teens in despair

Netflix’s original series “13 Reasons Why” has become a phenomenon among teens and adults ever since it debuted at the end of March.

The series, based on the young adult novel of the same name, tells the story of high schooler Hannah Baker and the 13 reasons why she committed suicide. The controversial series tackles such topics as sexual assault, bullying, depression and teenage suicide.

Some experts say that the series is important and should be discussed in schools because it could help students who are dealing with depression and despair.

“I've had a lot of friends who've gone through depression and suicidal thoughts and actions, and it's been horrible to see them go through their pain,” says New Jersey high school senior Samantha Salzone.

Dr. Susan Brill, adolescent medicine specialist at Saint Peter's University Hospital, says that she is learning about the series from her young patients.

“I think the benefit of talking about [the controversial topics] and the communication that's maybe happening when parents and kids are watching the series together, is probably going to save a lot more lives,” she says.

Suicide is the fourth leading cause of death in people between the ages of 10 and 24, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Some schools are warning parents about “13 Reasons Why” due to its graphic depictions of rape, suicide and violence.