Have you watched 13 Reasons Why? Let’s discuss 13 reasons why this show is so relevant.
This post is going to reveal major spoilers, so DO NOT continue unless you watched all four seasons.
If you’re like me, you dropped everything else you were doing to binge the fourth and final season of this show. I told friends what I was watching, and one of them binged all four seasons in three days so she could discuss it with me!
13 Reasons Why got a lot of hype when it first came out on Netflix. Not only does it delve into heavy topics that teenagers shouldn’t have to deal with, but it shows graphic scenes that are very difficult to watch.
Every episode is filled with intense drama, and I couldn’t stop watching until I got to the finale of each season. There are lots of plotlines that all merge together to create an interesting, entertaining, and educational show.
Maybe the intensity is what kept me wanting more. Or perhaps I couldn’t get enough of all the teenage drama. Whatever the case, I zipped through the seasons as I watched the incredible events unfold.
The show displays many powerful and important topics.
Here are 13 reasons why this show is so relevant in this day and age:
1. Suicide
The first season is all about Hannah’s suicide. She created 13 tapes to explain how everyone’s actions and behaviors directly affected her. There are many lessons to be learned from this season. Most importantly, be very careful what you do or say to others, as you have the power to alter a person’s life forever.
2. Mental Health
Hannah unfortunately didn’t receive enough counseling before her untimely death, but all the other characters have a lot of psychological trauma that needs to be dealt with. Clay luckily seeks regular therapy in season four, but Jessica and Alex should put their mental health first after what they’ve been through. The lesson here is to seek counseling when necessary.
3. Rape
The three rape scenes are extremely disturbing. Hannah’s rape is the final straw for her, and Jessica comes out of her rape stronger than before by creating an activist group. Tyler’s rape is so violent and traumatic that I was surprised he comes out of it alive. Terrible things happen to good people, so the lesson here is that it’s possible to get through it with support from loved ones.
4. Love
Clay is afraid to show his feelings for Hannah, and then he never gets the chance. He grapples with that throughout all four seasons. Jessica and Justin’s love for each other is deep and real, even after every barrier they face. The takeaway lesson is that if you love someone, tell them your feelings before it’s too late.
5. Friendship
Although Clay and Tony come from such opposite backgrounds, their friendship is strong until the end. Hannah, Jessica, and Alex also have a powerful connection at one point, but romance splits them apart. Tyler gets a sense of belonging once Clay and Tony befriend him. The lesson is that it’s possible to be friends with anyone, as long as you work on the relationship.
6. Addiction
Many characters struggle with alcohol and drugs, and even sex addiction. Justin shows us what the worst-case scenario can be if you continue down that path. His death is a sad, yet realistic outcome of his drug use. The lesson here is that you should seek help if you have an addiction, and don’t be afraid to admit when you fall off the wagon.
7. Violence
Every episode includes some sort of violence. The guys shove and punch each other without a second thought, and there are constant fights that break out between friends and enemies alike. The lesson is that it’s important to show restraint and think before you throw a punch needlessly.
8. Homosexuality
When it is revealed that Monty is gay, it allows the audience to sympathize with him a little bit. His violent actions towards Tyler and Winston are appalling, but he struggles with his identity and doesn’t know how to show his true self. Alex is more self-aware and able to openly express his feelings. The lesson here is to figure out who you really are and display it proudly for all to see.
9. Family
The parents don’t play a huge part in this show, but they are always around when their kids need support and guidance. Justin gets a second chance when Clay’s parents welcome him with open arms into their family. Tony’s family unfortunately gets deported, but they’re still with him in spirit. There is much secrecy and avoidance of parental figures, but the lesson is that family comes first. They’ll be there for you no matter what.
10. Guns
Nothing good comes from guns in this show. Alex almost kills himself, Tyler almost shoots everyone at school, and the active shooter drill creates complete chaos and rioting. The lesson here is that teenagers should not have access to guns. They aren’t mature enough to handle it.
11. Murder
The two most despicable characters, Bryce and Monty, get what they deserve. After committing horrific crimes, they’re killed. Bryce tries to make amends for his sins before he dies, and Monty tries to push away his past and figure out his identity. The lesson is that every life is sacred, and it’s possible for people to redeem themselves.
12. Guilt
All the characters carry guilt throughout the episodes. Hannah feels guilty for Jeff’s death. They all feel guilty for causing Hannah’s suicide. Zach feels guilty for beating up Bryce, which in turn causes his death. Alex claims to not feel guilty about pushing Bryce to his death, but he struggles with guilt nevertheless. Jessica and Clay blame themselves for not noticing Justin’s deterioration. The lesson here is to learn to forgive yourself.
13. Secrecy
Hannah keeps her emotions bottled up. Jessica doesn’t reveal her rape for a long time. Clay won’t talk about his anxiety until he’s forced to. Justin is scared to mention that he’s using drugs again. Teenagers should not have to keep pain and dark secrets in their hearts. The lesson here is that you should find a trusted source to tell your secrets to.
As you can tell, 13 Reasons Why explores a multitude of important themes.
This Shmoop article by Jay Asher, the author of the book the show is based on, goes into a detailed analysis of themes. Some are similar to mine, while he added other important ones from the book as well.
I believe that parents, teachers, and therapists of teenagers should watch this show to understand its significance. It’s entertaining and informative, and it touches on many issues that teenagers deal with in today’s world. 13 Reasons Why is very relevant and enjoyable to watch, so I definitely recommend it!
