From the initial praise that the “13 Reasons Why” series received, to the strong backlash that emerged shortly after its release, many viewers are left concerned with the negative implications the show may have and are unsure how to interpret the positive messages that appear in the storyline. The series has sparked debate over whether its content is beneficial or detrimental to the teens who watch it. Ultimately, there is no clear cut answer. It is important that viewers are informed and aware of what they are watching, and are able to tailor their viewing experience accordingly. “13 Reasons Why” can serve as an avenue to spur conversation or a catalyst for dangerous behavior. The series and its portrayal has both strong points and fallacies, some of which are listed below.

Pros

The show prompts individuals dealing with similar issues to seek help.
The data on individuals speaking to Crisis Text Line shows a correlation between people who have watched “13 Reasons Why” and people who have reached out for help. In the 18 days following its initial airing, three percent of the Crisis Center’s text conversations, which equals around 1,200 individuals, mentioned “13 Reasons Why”. The Crisis Text Line provides free crisis intervention for anyone in need, and has helped many people work through difficulties. By watching the show and reaching out for help, the potential for many to receive proper assistance and prevent further crises from occurring improves.

It drives home the theme of the effect words can have and the importance of kindness.
There are many different themes the series depicts over the course of its 13 episodes, but one of the most integral is kindness.

“You don’t know what goes on in anyone’s life but your own,” said Hannah Baker. “And when you mess with one part of a person’s life, you’re not messing with just that part. Unfortunately, you can’t be that precise and selective. When you mess with one part of a person’s life, you’re messing with their entire life. Everything…affects everything.”

The characters’ actions and words attempt to convey the interconnected stories behind the bullying Hannah experienced and how it affected her. The on-screen portrayal of the characters allows viewers to grasp the importance of being kind and really thinking about how their actions may affect other people. These themes are thought-provoking, and the show highlights them consistently, making sure that viewers consider their implications.

It sparks conversation.
Not only has “13 Reasons Why” become increasingly popular among teens, it is also being watched and talked about by counselors, teachers, and parents. The topics the show discusses and the wide audience it reaches opens the door for conversations about serious topics that may have been more difficult to discuss for some prior to the show’s airing. BV West recently held a JAG session where students came and discussed the show’s topics with counselors. Having open discussions with others about the issues presented in the show has become more commonplace following its airing and success.

It has a relevant storyline.
According to Fizziology, a social media research company, “13 Reasons Why” received over three million social media impressions during its first week out, giving it a social presence greater than any other Netflix original series to date. The number of people who are watching and talking about the show is continuing to grow by the day, and it is clear that this rising popularity is not without reason. The issues the show deals with are things many teenagers have dealt with personally or know someone who has, including sexual assault, suicide, and bullying. “13 Reasons Why” is unique in that, although it is a fictional show, in has an element of reality that draws viewers in and holds meaning to them.

Cons

It may prompt suicide contagion.
The concept of suicide contagion is not a new one. When one suicide occurs, there have been links to an increased rate in suicidal thoughts and actions by those affected, especially when a suicide is publicized in the media. The viral popularity of “13 Reasons Why” has caused the issue of suicide as a whole to be publicized more openly, which some view as beneficial, but others as detrimental. Netflix is taking steps to ensure that viewers are more informed and aware of the potential triggers they may experience as they watch the show, which shows an effort to reduce the chances of suicide contagion for at-risk victims. They recently released the following statement.
“We will add an additional viewer warning card before the first episode as an extra precaution for those about to start the series and have also strengthened the messaging and resource language in the existing cards for episodes that contain graphic subject matter.”

The subject matter can be perceived as glamorized.
One of the main controversies surrounding the show’s airing is the idea that the issues and story were glamorized. Many are concerned that it romanticizes suicide, masking the true implications and reality of suicide with concepts of revenge, romance, and the various scenarios that unfold following Hannah’s death. Although the show is fiction, any glamorization of its sensitive content on-screen may encourage viewers to feel that suicide can be romanticized or used for revenge. It is important to understand that this is not reality.

It fails to address mental health issues Hannah may have experienced.
The show focuses on depictions of sexual assault and bullying leading up to Hannah’s suicide, which are both relevant factors that may play a role in one’s decision to take their own life. However, the show shies away from explicit discussions about mental health issues Hannah may have, including depression or anxiety. “13 Reasons Why” fails to address the complexity behind suicide in this regard, oversimplifying the causes to viewers instead of stressing the importance of seeking treatment if unhealthy mentalities and suicidal tendencies develop.

The school counselor is inaccurately portrayed.
In the last episode of the show, Hannah has a failed attempt seeking help from her school counselor. The counselor pushes aside Hannah’s problems when she comes to talk to him, and fails to acknowledge her warning signs in a proper way. It is imperative to understand that counselors are professionally trained to be able to address students exhibiting suicidal tendencies, and the scenario Hannah experienced is not one that should occur in a real-world setting. The “13 Reasons Why” webiste issued the following statement regarding the scene.
“How the guidance counselor in 13RW responded is not appropriate and not typical of most counselors. School counselors are professionals and are a trustworthy source for help.”