Netflix Show – 13 Reasons Why

Dear Parents/Guardians,

P-H-M Counselors have been made aware of a new Netflix show "13 Reasons Why." The story is about a high school student who dies by suicide and then leaves a message blaming the people close to her for her death. Mental health experts nationwide have expressed concerns that the program glorifies suicide and leaves survivors with the idea that it is their fault if a loved one completes suicide.

We want the parents of our 4th-8th grade students, along with Penn High School parents, to be aware of this television program and give you resources to use if your son or daughter watches the show and needs to process its content. We have loaded "13 Reasons Why" talking points to the District website that you can use when discussing  with your child:  

https://www.phmschools.org/sites/phmschools.org/files/13rw_talking_points_final.pdf

Remember that talking about suicide doesn't cause suicide. Making connections and showing people we care reduces isolation that may contribute to suicide ideation. Please remember that the counselors at all our schools are available to talk to your son or daughter and parents if you or they need help.

We also have many resources on the District website that can help parents and students. Please visit www.phmschools.org/lifelines.

Thank you,

Frank Anglin, Ed.S.