Dear Families,

An online Netflix series called 13 Reasons Why has been receiving a lot of attention recently, particularly
among families with school aged children. The series has also been causing concern and raising questions
among educators and mental health professionals.

The fictional series, which is based on a young adult novel of the same name, tells the story of a teenager
who dies by suicide, and some of the events the young woman perceived led to her death.

At Edmonton Public Schools, our teachers and staff work hard every day to provide welcoming and safe
spaces for students who may need support with mental health issues. We are empathetic and concerned
about the topic of suicide, and recognize it can be a difficult topic to discuss.

The Canadian Mental Health Association (www.cmha.ca) and the National Association of School
Psychologists (https://www.nasponline.org) have released cautions about the graphic and inaccurate
nature of the content of the series, specifically in relation to the topic of suicide. Their statements also
provide guidance for educators and parents.

Students who are watching this series will have varying reactions to it. While some may have concerns
about its impact, others may see it as an opportunity for discussion. Whether or not to watch 13 Reasons
Why is a decision your family will make on its own. Some students will have already watched the series or
read the book outside of school.

Start by checking in with your children about what they are reading and watching. Helping children and
youth to be critical thinkers and savvy consumers of media is important, no matter what the topic.

Most importantly, know there are supports available if you have concerns about your childs mental health.
Your childs school has access to counseling services, crisis teams and, if needed, can help you connect with
community support agencies.
If you have immediate concerns about your child and suicide, get help right away. The Canadian Mental
Health Association says, If you are feeling suicidal, or know someone who is, please reach out for help. Call
Kids Help Phone at 1-800-668-6868 or visit the website to chat:
https//www.kidshelpphone.ca/teens/home/splash.aspx

211 Alberta is a program operated by the Canadian Mental Health AssociationEdmonton Region. It can
connect you to social, health, and government services. Visit the website at:
https://edmonton.cmha.ca/programs-services/211-alberta-edmonton-and-area.

In the event of an emergency or crisis, please call the Childrens Mental Health Crisis Line, Alberta Health
Services, at 7804274491, to speak with a mental health professional.

Other general supports in your community can be found here: http://www.yourlifecounts.org

If you believe your child is watching this series, here are some suggestions for families, prepared by a
school district in Ontario, to help you with the discussion: http://www.hwdsb.on.ca/wp-
content/uploads/2017/04/Web-Post-13-Reasons-Why.pdf

If you have any questions or concerns, please dont hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,

Principal