You Should Watch '13 Reasons Why' Even If It's Uncomfortable
Start writing a post
Entertainment

You Should Watch '13 Reasons Why' Even If It's Uncomfortable

It might be hard to watch, but it's even harder to live through.

110
You Should Watch '13 Reasons Why' Even If It's Uncomfortable
Netflix

There are no spoilers contained within this article.

From it's initial Netflix debut to the final episode of season two, "13 Reasons Why" has been nothing short of controversial. Many moments have been viewed as too heavy or as a glorification of suicide, sexual assault, etc.

But in my eyes, I consider this show so extremely important. It has addressed a plethora of issues and opened up a much-needed discussion about mental health and sexual assault.

"13 Reasons Why" contains graphic images and horrifying incidents that are hard to digest, and rightfully so. While some have turned to social media to express their negative feelings towards various scenes and the series in general, others are grateful that these topics are being brought to light.

For me, a victim and survivor of sexual abuse, I understand first hand how hard it can be to recover from a traumatic experience. The sad truth is many of us never do fully recover.

Another sad truth is that many of us never allow for our stories to be heard.

Equally as sad, is that when traumatic situations are presented on a tv show so many people are quick to turn it off and tell their friends not to watch it.

But what about those, who didn't have the choice to just turn it off? Those who suffered through these experiences in real life?

Sure, watching a depiction of a rape or a suicide is very uncomfortable... it should be! But it also gives viewers the opportunity to feel just a small piece of the emotions that overwhelm individuals who have faced similar situations in their real lives.

The stories of Hannah, Jessica, Tyler and many other characters are painful to see but they have brought forth stories that drive every viewer to feel something.

The aftermath of a traumatic experience can be overwhelming, but so can being a friend to those who have suffered through something of that nature. Especially, if they can't even begin to relate in even the smallest way.

It's feelings like the ones brought on by watching "13 Reasons Why" that make survivors feel a little less alone. Content such as this even opens the minds of individuals who are lucky enough to have never faced a traumatic experience, creating for them a better understanding of the those who have.

Perhaps after watching this show, people can stop saying things like "she was asking for it," "it's not that bad" or "get over it."

This just in, wearing a skirt, crop top or even a bikini doesn't mean she was asking for it. Just because you can relate to a situation doesn't mean that it's "not that bad" for someone else. It also doesn't mean that those involved can just "move past it."

For some, our minds are riddled with depression and trauma, followed by a constant rollercoaster ride of highs and lows. The reality is, that unless you've been able to walk in an individuals shoes, you will never fully be able to comprehend what's happening in their mind.

I'm so incredibly thankful that someone out there was able to bring this series to life, giving an opportunity for survivors and average viewers alike to come together and finally begin to ask questions, seek help, and learn how to begin to better understand one another.

Just as Jay Asher once wrote, "everything effects everything."

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
houses under green sky
Photo by Alev Takil on Unsplash

Small towns certainly have their pros and cons. Many people who grow up in small towns find themselves counting the days until they get to escape their roots and plant new ones in bigger, "better" places. And that's fine. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't thought those same thoughts before too. We all have, but they say it's important to remember where you came from. When I think about where I come from, I can't help having an overwhelming feeling of gratitude for my roots. Being from a small town has taught me so many important lessons that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.

Keep Reading...Show less
​a woman sitting at a table having a coffee
nappy.co

I can't say "thank you" enough to express how grateful I am for you coming into my life. You have made such a huge impact on my life. I would not be the person I am today without you and I know that you will keep inspiring me to become an even better version of myself.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

Waitlisted for a College Class? Here's What to Do!

Dealing with the inevitable realities of college life.

86873
college students waiting in a long line in the hallway
StableDiffusion

Course registration at college can be a big hassle and is almost never talked about. Classes you want to take fill up before you get a chance to register. You might change your mind about a class you want to take and must struggle to find another class to fit in the same time period. You also have to make sure no classes clash by time. Like I said, it's a big hassle.

This semester, I was waitlisted for two classes. Most people in this situation, especially first years, freak out because they don't know what to do. Here is what you should do when this happens.

Keep Reading...Show less
a man and a woman sitting on the beach in front of the sunset

Whether you met your new love interest online, through mutual friends, or another way entirely, you'll definitely want to know what you're getting into. I mean, really, what's the point in entering a relationship with someone if you don't know whether or not you're compatible on a very basic level?

Consider these 21 questions to ask in the talking stage when getting to know that new guy or girl you just started talking to:

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

Challah vs. Easter Bread: A Delicious Dilemma

Is there really such a difference in Challah bread or Easter Bread?

52867
loaves of challah and easter bread stacked up aside each other, an abundance of food in baskets
StableDiffusion

Ever since I could remember, it was a treat to receive Easter Bread made by my grandmother. We would only have it once a year and the wait was excruciating. Now that my grandmother has gotten older, she has stopped baking a lot of her recipes that require a lot of hand usage--her traditional Italian baking means no machines. So for the past few years, I have missed enjoying my Easter Bread.

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments