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13 Reasons Why, Season two will be released worldwide on Friday 18 May. This show was widely watched by teenagers last year. Themes of suicide, sexual assault, consent, bullying and other issues made some viewers feel distressed and in need of support. Similar and equally confronting themes will be present in season two. In the lead-up to the release, some young people may re-watch the first season, or watch it for the first time.
Young people feel the show represents the issues they face. Banning or recommending a ban on viewing it can be harmful, as young people will still watch it but feel they have to hide that from adults.  The issues raised in the series are significant and offer a good opportunity to talk to our young people about these difficult life events – but it is important that those conversations are safe ones.
13 Reasons Why is not the only challenging series young people are watching but it is one of the most talked about. The Office of Film and Literature Classification has released a guide for parents:
Talking with young people about what they’re watching https://www.classificationoffice.govt.nz/news/latest-news/challenging-media/.
The Mental Health Foundation’s hub of resources has some additional information as well
If you have any question or worries, don’t hesitate to contact our counsellors.
Sue Poupouare  poupouares@wsc.school.nz
Linda Bean  beanl@wsc.school.nz
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