"13 Reasons Why": How & Why to Prepare Kids If They Are Going to Watch Season 2 by Sheryl Gould

Are your kids going to watch the second season of "13 Reasons Why" on Netflix? Talk with them about it first! Whether you just touch on the series or choose to explain it in detail, just by talking you become the authority on the subject. Here are some statements you can start with:

• Movies and TV glamorize behavior. Without us knowing it, a movie or TV show about bad behavior may condone that behavior by using actors and actresses we admire to portray the story. 

• Whether or not you agree, your mind is actually being desensitized to these behaviors you see on the screen.

• Shows like this do not portray conversations or events accurately. They are fictionalized. 

• Taking one's own life is an unimaginable tragedy. This show does not accurately represent the mental health issues behind suicide.

If you are going to let your teen watch the second season, it is important to have a conversation first. Reverse the negative message that was sent when the last season made it seem that there were no adults to go to. Reinforce the importance of education and action around suicide, bullying and sexual assault.

The most important thing we can do is have the conversation before, not pick up the pieces after.

This video is longer than 30 seconds, but we think it's worth it.