Mental Health Supports and Netflix Show, 13 Reasons Why, Seasons 1–4

On Friday, June 5, 2020, Netflix released Season 4 of their series, 13 Reasons Why. Each season has included highly controversial material, including student death by suicide, date rape, bullying (season 1); sexual assault and a possible school shooting (season 2); murder of a student (season 3); and death of a student who contracted HIV through intravenous drug use and sex work (season 4). While subsequent seasons did not specifically focus on death by suicide, the story lines continued to reference Hannah, the student who died in season 1, and she was a character in both seasons 2 and 4. In addition, it is highly likely that students re-watch earlier seasons as a prelude to watching the most recent season. 

The National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) has published several resources to support schools, families, and students. These resources include steps parents/guardians can take to ensure the safety of their children who may watch the series and ways they can talk with their children about the mature themes. 

The show was released during a time of social distancing, when adults and children were at increased risk of significant mental health challenges because our typical support systems (i.e., friends and extended family) and methods of coping (e.g., socializing in groups, engaging in joint activities) were not available. Nationally, the rates of depression, anxiety, and substance increased during that time and increased rates of mental health issues have continued due to the experience and it's impact on learning, relationships, employment, and so much else.

Nationally and locally, there are multiple resources to support students, families, and staff members who are experiencing mental health difficulties. 

•  Montgomery County Hotline 301-738-CALL (2255) 

  • Confidential supportive listening, information, and referrals 24/7. From noon to midnight, individuals may connect via text messaging 

• Montgomery County Crisis Center 240-777-4000 

  • 24/7 in person crisis intervention for walk-ins, 1301 Piccard Drive, Rockville 

  • 24/7 phone consultation, screening, and referral information 

• Suicide Prevention Lifeline chat https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/chat/ (24/7) 

• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration National Helpline 800-662-HELP (4357)

  • Provides free, confidential 24/7 treatment referral and information (in English and Spanish) for individuals and families facing mental health and/or substance use difficulties 

• Montgomery County Public Schools Waymaking video series, including episodes on Suicide Awareness, Managing Stress During Social Distancing, Montgomery County Crisis Center, and EveryMind Crisis Prevention and Intervention 

Links/Additional Information; NASP COVID-19: Crisis and Mental Health Resources, NASP Comprehensive School Suicide Prevention in a Time of Distance Learning, and NASP 13 Reasons Why Resources