Hello!

I am a social worker and master's degree student working at a junior high. I have read, watched, and researched the latest Netflix series, 13 Reasons Why. While I love that society is actively trying to lift the negative stigma surrounding mental health, depression, and suicide, I felt that the production companies and producers of this series missed a large opportunity. The opportunity was within the 13 episodes where they could have educated, supported, and encouraged each viewer watching the show. At the beginning, middle, and/or end of every episode there could have been at least one topic covered in a matter of 2 minutes. These topics could have included: what signs to look for when a person is suicidal, how to talk to someone about suicide, and lastly, who to talk to (and include) hotline numbers, agencies, etc. I think that in the next season, they can take these suggestions and utilize them for their own benefit. I also feel that this will continue to reach more people and allow them to resonate more with the series, but also understand and know how to get help or how to help someone they love and/or know. The show has reached millions, and of those millions, how many people know how to get in contact with someone to get help? As a social worker, I have found that most are unaware of the hotlines, who to talk to that they can trust, and how to notice the signs to bring up the conversation about suicide with a loved one. I hope that this petition persuades the production companies and the producers to rethink their next season and include these topics. I feel that it will make a much better impact on our youth and society as a whole!

Thank you for signing this petition in the agreement that the Netflix Series needs to add more support and education for it's viewers on suicide.