Recently, Netflix renewed “13 Reasons Why,” which depicts the journey of a high school student who dies by suicide (after being bullied and having school counselors dismiss her), leaving behind audio tapes detailing the events that she perceives led to her death.
We know that many schools are having safe conversations about the Netflix series and are providing resources for students. We encourage parents, schools, youth organization, youth groups, faith communities and non-profits to talk using safe messaging with the young people you serve about “13 Reasons Why”.
The Suicide Prevention Resource Center has identified a short list of key national resources to support schools, parents and communities, and key information on safe and effective ways of messaging about suicide risk and prevention as you and your community partners respond.
Additionally, these local resources are available.
TXT4LIFE (text “life” to 61222)
Minnesota Children’s Mobile Crisis Response Teams offers immediate crisis response for the community and stabilization services for young people that are experiencing a crisis.
For general information on providing mental health services in schools, contact Tom Delaney, Interagency Partnerships Supervisor in the Special Education Division of the Minnesota Department of Education at thomas.delaney@state.mn.us.
Source: MDH