As the second season of "13 Reasons Why" premieres May 18 on Netflix, you should strongly consider making this your next binge for the summer.
The first season of "13 Reasons Why" follows a fictional character, Hannah Baker, who makes 13 audio tapes that discuss the series of events that led to her suicide. The tapes highlight important life issues, such as bullying, sexual assault and mental health that need to be touched upon.
Previously, suicide has been considered a taboo choice of conversation. People do not want to talk about it because of the way it brings up uncomfortable circumstances. "13 Reasons Why" creates awareness for the topic of suicide, as the show is centered on the suicide of Baker.
Another central theme appearing in "13 Reasons Why" is the issue of mental health. While mental health has not necessarily been a comfortable thing to discuss, things are beginning to change.
Baker is not her usual happy self in the tapes, and suffers from a deep depression. It is important for people to be aware of signs of mental health issues to help others who need it. Spotting the signs early could save a life.
The issue of bullying is taken to another level in "13 Reasons Why." Fellow students begin to harass Baker after nude photos of her circulate around her high school. Students abuse her verbally by calling her names and slut-shaming her.
The bullying increases when a hot-or-not list comes out with her name listed under hot causing more unwanted sexual harassment, such as a stalker that takes photos of her unknowingly while she is in her bedroom. These incidents cause Baker to feel alone.
"13 Reasons Why" lets people know bullying has a lasting effect. Bullying must be watched for and prevented to ensure everyone is given the opportunity to feel safe.
While you would hope life would get better for Baker, things only get worse when she is raped by a senior. The audio tapes reveal that this event, along with her previous encounters with bullying, led Baker to end her life.
Many survivors of sexual assault or abuse suffer silently, so sexual misconduct or sexual abuse are issues that need to be discussed more often. It is important to learn about how to help, so those who have been through that kind of situation are able to receive professional care.
Above all, "13 Reasons Why" is a great show to demonstrate that the way we interact with people matters and all people should be treated with kindness. In previous times, the first words you would use to comfort people impacted by suicide would be, "It's not your fault."
"13 Reasons Why" implies that suicide can be due to the way that people are treated. After watching this show and getting educated on sensitive issues, you will be able to make a difference in your own community. All it takes is one person to create a change.
