13 Reasons To Watch '13 Reasons Why' | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Entertainment

13 Reasons To Watch '13 Reasons Why'

This is more than just a television series.

21
13 Reasons To Watch '13 Reasons Why'
https://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://www.gstatic.com/tv/thumb/tvbanners/13762579/p13762579_b_v8_aa.jpg&imgrefurl=http://google.com/search%3Ftbm%3Disch%26q%3D13%2520Reasons%2520Why&h=1440&w=960&tbnid=_HKiyLW_PAvWDM:&tbnh=186&tbnw=124&usg=__VvJZ_3faV299WXBGTZtAh4CmGb4=&vet=10ahUKEwjIlqmE06HTAhUmjFQKHTklBhwQ_B0IhAEwDA..i&docid=raAQRjfrIzuoNM&itg=1&sa=X&ved=0ahUKEwjIlqmE06HTAhUmjFQKHTklBhwQ_B0IhAEwDA&ei=54vvWIiHM6aY0gK5ypjgAQ

In 2007, ten years ago, I picked up a young adult novel titled, 13 Reasons Why, and little did I know, it would have an everlasting impact on my life. We're all told, "sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me" or at least some saying along those lines. However, if you've experienced any part of the real world you'll learn this isn't true. Unfortunately, individuals today are the most savage and ruthless individuals when it comes to other people's feelings. Recently Netflix released a series titled 13 Reasons Why, based on the book, which was also produced by singer and actress, Selena Gomez, who has opened up about issues surrounding her own mental health.

Let me tell you something, this series should be watched by every single teenager, and here's 13 reasons why you should.

1. The life lessons.

The whole series is built off of life lessons. You see how your words and actions impact others, even if it's taken out of context.

2. It touches on real issues.

The series focuses on a lot of issues that are really uncomfortable for many individuals to speak about such as, bullying and suicide, just to name a few. Especially in high school, I know from my own experience, how damaging rumors and lies are, and how they can easily destroy you until you feel so small.

3. It shows you how to be aware of underlying issues.

On the surface someone may appear okay, but something could be extremely wrong, and it is important to look for any indication of suffering mentally, emotionally, and physically.

4. You don't know someone's life.

You never know what someone is truly going through. Don't be so quick to judge. Any of this could happen to you, or someone you love.

5. It depicts how corrupt and numb social media has made us.

We hide behind technology, where it is easier for us to hurt someone when we can't see them. We hide behind our phones and computers where we can do the most damage.

6. Rumors hurt.

I know this first hand. My first recommendation would be not to believe everything you hear, and my second would be not to spread what you hear. Rumors can destroy you.

7. It may be graphic, but it's real.

These things happen. The abuse, the trauma, and the graphic scenes are things that really happen. Certain scenes are extremely triggering and have warnings before you watch certain episodes, please use caution.

8. No means no- if a boy or girl is too intoxicated to say no- it still means NO.

Rape and sexual assault happen all to often. If an individual isn't a consenting adult, that doesn't mean you force yourself on them. No means no, silence means no, and refusal means no. If someone isn't physically capable of saying no because they're intoxicated or disoriented, guess what, it still means no.

9. Be accepting.

Be accepting of people no matter their background, race, or sexual orientation. You don't know the demons someone is suffering from.

10. Be consciously aware of what you say.

Even little things may be misunderstood as something extremely hurtful and damaging. Think before you speak. Something that you think is little, could mean something so much more to someone else.

11. Your actions affect the actions of others.

Remember Sheri's choice to not call 911 about the stop sign? Remember Jeff and what happened, which wasn't his fault. Your choices, every choice, has extremely big consequences, no matter what you believe.

12. There is good in the world.

People like Tony show you that there is good in the world. There are people who care, and there are people who mean good, like Clay. Not everyone is consciously aware of other's suffering, unfortunately.

13. There is help.

At the end of the series, the cast comes together to discuss the seriousness of these issues and that there is help if you need it. There are ways to prevent suicide, and there are ways to be aware of the signs.

There is this website, that links you up to prevention hotlines. Please remember there are people who care, there are reasons to live, and there is always someone who will listen. You're strong, you have so much to live for, you do have a future. Please reach out if you need it. To everyone who is hurting out there, to everyone who has been bullied, and to those who are thinking of hurting themselves, you are loved, please believe that, because even if I don't know you, I love you. To all those who are being bullied, and all those who are the reasons someone else are suffering, I hope you never have to experience what you're putting others through.


Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Taylor Swift in orange dress playing a moss-covered piano on stage with bright lights.

A three-and-a-half-hour runtime. Nine Eras. Eleven outfit changes. Three surprise songs. Zero breaks. One unforgettable evening. In the past century, no other performer has put on an electric performance quite like Taylor Swift, surpassing her fans ‘wildest dreams’. It is the reason supporters keep coming back to her shows each year. Days later, I’m still in awe of the spectacle ‘Miss Americana’ puts on every few days in a new city. And, like one of Taylor’s exes, has me smiling as I reminisce about the memories of the night we spent together.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

23558
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
Students walking on a sunny college campus with trees and buildings.

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

9841
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

7131
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments