Hey everyone, I hope you're all well!
Today I have something a little different, I'm going to be sharing my thoughts on the Netflix Original series 13 Reasons Why.
*possible trigger warning and spoiler alert*
Just recently this series has been talked about all over social media and everyone is watching it. I've wanted to talk about the series since I first watched it myself, because I've read a lot of different people's opinions and theories and I feel like some people are missing the point of the show completely. I think it's a really great show, and the story behind it is something that is happening all over the world, but goes unnoticed in some cases. It highlights how something so little can affect someone, without anyone ever realising and sums up how some people are feeling right now.
Though I've not personally suffered from a mental illness, I have been bullied and I can tell you now it is awful! If you've ever been the victim of bullying, you'll know exactly how Hannah is feeling throughout the whole show. Everything she does is a cry for help, but no-one seems to realise which is heartbreaking. I'm not going to lie I was a complete mess after watching all the episodes, especially when she's explaining things to Clay.
It's such a hard hitting series and but I feel like some people will watch and think "she's making a big deal out of nothing, that's just how school is" but some people deal with things a lot easier than others and obviously people forget that. I think if you've been bullied before, even the tiniest amount, you will understand what Hannah is feeling. I definitely think watching this series will make people realise how powerful their words can actually be.
This series does as much for suicide awareness as it does for rape culture. With very graphic scenes of rape and sexual assault, it literally forces the viewer to think about what could be happening somewhere. It's a big slap in the face for ignorant people who don't believe these kind of things are going on. While there is a trigger warning at the start of the episode that shows rape/suicide, I feel like Netflix should have issued one at the start of the season for anyone that doesn't actually know what they're about to watch.
I definitely feel like the producers of the show left it open for a second series which could focus on other mental health issues. I'd also personally like to find out how everything pans out, from Alex's attempted suicide, to the lawsuit between Hannah's parents and the school. I'd also love to know if Bryce gets his comeuppance for his disgusting attitude and behaviour to girls.
I did really enjoy this series, and I've already recommended it to so many people because it's definitely an eye opener! It gives people an insight into how their actions and words can affect someone, and hopefully will make people nicer in general.
If you know someone who is considering suicide or self harms, do something about it. Showing even the smallest amount of support for someone could make a world of difference. If you are suffering, the best thing you can do is talk to someone, whether it be a family member, a friend or even your doctor. There are people that can help.
You are worth more than your mental illness, I promise.
