YOUNG people and their parents have been encouraged to be safe and informed before watching the second season of 13 Reasons Why.
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headspace and Netflix have released resources about the show, which depicts difficult themes including suicide, sexual assault, substance abuse and bullying.
Jason Trethowan, headspace’s chief executive officer, said the show had shone a light on tough and difficult topics, bringing them into mainstream discussions. “Television shows can provide parents and schools the opportunity to have conversations with young people about important issues which is great, however, there is the potential for these conversations to do more harm than good,” Mr Trethowan said.
“Our aim is to ensure young people, parents and schools are supported and equipped to have constructive conversations about the themes that are depicted in the show.”
headspace clinical practice head Vikki Ryall said another key aim was to support young people who may be distressed by the show’s content.
“The likelihood that the content will be distressing or triggering for some viewers will depend on their individual life experiences and current circumstances,” Ms Ryall said.
“No two people will take exactly the same meaning or understanding out of the same episode.
“By providing young people with tips on how to watch the show safely and ensuring they know how to seek help we can ensure distressed viewers can be supported.”
Young people and parents can access the resources at the 13 Reasons Why website www.13reasonswhy.info