A Riverina mother praises a controversial show for encouraging teenagers to talk about depression.
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Former Griffith woman Carli Cox’s son, Mitchell, took his own life on December 23, 2014, aged 21.
Ms Cox now lives in Albury and commends the new Netflix series 13 Reasons Why for starting conversations, especially among youth, about depression, bullying and suicide.
The show centres around Hannah Baker who takes her own life and leaves behind cassette tapes detailing the 13 reasons, or people, that led her to this decision.
Ms Cox said the show did not glorify suicide but raises talking points around a very serious issue.
“These things were never talked about and often misunderstood,” she said.
“I think getting people to open up is good therapy in itself.”
Ms Cox said she saw the demise of her son start from an early age and can relate to the show’s premise.
“I can pinpoint moments in his life that led him to that decision,” she said.
“I could probably give you 13 reasons why.”
Youth mental health organisation, headspace, has received concerned calls and emails from parents, schools and youths regarding the graphic content featured in the series.
headspace issued a warning to parents and schools about the impact of exposing students to this type of content, including “increased risk and possible suicide contagion.”
If you or someone you know needs help, call:
- Lifeline – 13 11 14
- Suicide Call Back Service – 1300 659 467
- Kids Helpline – 1800 55 1800
- MensLine Australia – 1300 78 99 78