Study links ’13 Reasons Why’ to possible increase in suicidal thoughts

Since it first aired in March, Netflix’s 13 Reasons Why has inspired backlash and serious concerns from viewers and mental health experts alike. Now, a new study seems to support the argument that the series’ graphic depiction and overall handling of suicide could be harmful.

Researchers analyzed internet searches immediately following the release of 13 Reasons Why, concluding that the show may be linked to a substantial increase in suicide-related searches and possibly suicidal ideation. Using the data tool Google Trends, the team found a spike of between 900,000 and 1.5 million more searches about suicide and suicide methods than expected over the first 19 days after the show aired. Read more…

More about Entertainment, Science, Netflix, Health, and Social Good