’13 Reasons Why’ : What is the Impact of Media on Teen Suicide?

In this episode, Dr. Serani, psychologist, author and depression expert and Dr. Owens, cognitive psychologist with expertise in suicide prevention, discuss the Netflix Series, “13 Reasons Why.” The series tells the fictional story of Hannah Baker, a teen who dies by suicide and leaves behind 13 tapes revealing the 13 reasons she ends her life. The show has caught the interest of teens as well as parents and professionals. Drs. Serani and Owens consider both the benefits and dangers of the series for teens. They recognize the needed attention the series brings to teen suicide; but raise concerns with dramatizations and omissions relative to suicide, depression, mental illness and treatment. They discuss how Hannah and the high school students are depicted, as well as the ways in which school personnel and parents respond in the series. Finally, they suggest ways for parents, teachers and young people to use this series as a starting point for addressing the tragedy of teen suicide.