Is the Second Season of "13 Reasons Why" Still a Problem?

Trigger Warning: This article discusses suicide.

The first season of 13 Reason Why caused a lot of controversy due to the way it depicted teenage suicide. With the second season now on Netflix, the show is addressing these criticisms with a content warning that advertises a website with mental health resources.

Some experts are warning that this is still not enough. So, we asked our members: What do you think? Here’s one interesting response.

13 Reasons Why may just be the most controversial television series of all time, with its sensitive subject matter and graphic detail.

It is not hard to see why it is problematic and considered an issue. However, although a lot of people have their problems with it, I tend to disagree.

This is because Season 2 now comes with a warning informing the viewer of the graphic content that will be displayed, and reminding them it’s not for everyone. Before the first episode of every season, there’s a video showing some of the actors speaking out about the TV show, pointing people to crisis support sources and the 13reasonswhy.info website.

I believe the series itself is quite realistic and was made so people would start talking about the issues in our everyday society. It also shines a light on situations that people have little knowledge on, such as suicide.

So many are against the series and pushing for Netflix to ban it, but it’s only dealing with the reality of high school bullying; a reality many young people in our world face today. Parents may be uncomfortable with the idea of this show depicting explicit things like sexual abuse, drugs, bullying and self-harm. However, the show's creators have said that was the whole point; that they wanted to represent these situations because of how prevalent they are in society. People going through these situations in real-life shouldn’t have to feel like they aren’t alone. (Follow this link to see the producer's comments, but be warned, it contains spoilers for Season 2.)

These are real situations people face and 13 Reasons Why is one of the only shows to touch on these subjects in such detail, which is necessary for people to understand the implications of their actions upon others.

Are you experiencing suicidal thoughts, sexual assault or domestic and family violence? Seeking to support someone who is? Call Lifeline on 131 114 or Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800.

Visit ReachOut to get support to help you with everything from everyday issues through to tough times.

Congratulations to Claudia for winning this week's writing challenge: Is the Second Season of "13 Reasons Why" Still a Problem? Claudia wins a $50 Westfield gift card for her submission. For your chance to win, check out our latest writing challenges in our Competitions section. Also, be sure to follow this guide on how to win the writing challenge.

Photo: Netflix