As someone who read the book and watched the series, 13 Reasons Why is very effective in displaying the effects of bullying, especially in a high school setting. This novel by Jay Asher helped me out a lot when I was going through tough times as a Freshman in High School. It promoted me to keep on pushing because you never know who may really miss you when you're gone. However, I also expected that 13 Reason Why may have a negative impact on those who are already considering suicide, and would eventually lend some ideas. This is exactly what occurred in Peru.
23 year old Franco Alonso Lazo Medrano committed suicide on June 7. After surviving the fall from his fourth floor apartment window, Medrano was later pronounced dead at the hospital. Police discovered two notes left behind by Medrano - one being a list of names and instructions. Before his death, Medrano had recorded tapes for the people he believes caused him to commit suicide. Unfortunately, the events of Medrano's suicide are very familiar to that of Hannah Baker in 13 Reasons Why, who sends recorded tapes to the people she believes drove her to commit suicide.
Though many say that 13 Reasons Why has helped them seek help for their depression and bullying, many of the backlash surrounding the series was due to the fact that the show may provide ideas to youth about how to commit suicide. It had even come to the point where schools nationwide were sending letters home to parents about their concerns towards the subject matter within the show, as it may be triggering for students. As a result of public concerns, Netflix had promised to "add an additional viewer warning card before the first episode as an extra precaution for those about to start the series"
As 13 Reasons Why points out, there is never one person to blame for a suicide. Most of the time, no one is to blame. It is a very traumatic event for all of those involved with the person. My heart and prayers to the family and friends of Franco Medrano.
If you or someone you know is in need of support, please do not hesitate to contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255
