New '13 Reasons Why' Season Leads TESD Officials To Warn Parents

BERWYN, PA – The Netflix series "13 Reasons Why" deals with teen suicide, depression, and bullying. It's second season premiers Friday, May 18 and officials with the Tredyffrin/Easttown School District are warning parents ahead of its release to the show's content.

The district recently issued a statement alerting parents to what their children might see and subsequently feel as a result of watching the teen-focused drama.

"In April 2017 we shared information with you about the popular Netflix series, 13 Reasons Why," the statement reads. "We are reaching out to you again to make you aware that Season 2 is being released this month. This series depicts the story of a teenager who tragically ends her own life and is based on a book by the same name and written by Jay Asher. The first season portrayed harsh bullying, sexual assault, and the suicide of a main character."

The statement goes on to cite the National Association of School Psychologists, which recommends those who are battling depression, coping with trauma, or shown self-harm tendencies in the past should not watch the show.

Additionally, the statement says National Association of School Psychologists officials recommend parents speak to their kids about the series if their kids are watching it.

You can see all of the National Association of School Psychologists' recommendations about "13 Reasons Why" online here.

Common Sense Media has also published information on how to converse with your child about the series.

"T/E takes our students' emotional and mental health very seriously. We proactively provide instruction and supports to students through our health and developmental guidance curriculum, our mental health specialists, and school-based CARE teams," the statement reads. "We encourage students who may need help processing an event, or the series 13 Reasons Why, to reach out to their school counselor."

The district said anyone with an immediate safety concern should contact their local emergency room, Valley Creek Crisis at (610) 918-2100, the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255, or text START to 741741.

Parents should contact the counselor at their child's school with further questions or concerns, the district said.

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