Netflix Responds To Teen Suicide Spike Linked To ’13 Reasons Why’

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Since its debut in March 2017, Netflix’s original series ’13 Reasons Why’ has been a consistent factor in the rise of suicidal internet searches and an increase in calls to suicide prevention centers. However, despite Netflix’s precautionary warnings, it seems the series is now linked to a bigger spike in teenage suicides.

A report from the Journal of the American Academy of Child recently revealed that a month after the release of the teen drama the overall suicide rate among 10-17-year-olds significantly increased in the U.S. Almost a year following the show’s premiere, there were 195 more deaths by suicide in this same age group than were expected based on past trends.

“Caution regarding the exposure of children and adolescents to the series is warranted,” the report concluded.

Though 65% of ’13 Reasons Why’ audience is made up of young females, studies have shown that since its premiere almost 30% of the suicide victims linked to the series have been males between ages 10-17. After learning of the report, Netflix quickly sent out a statement assuring fans and parents that they are actively looking into the findings.

“This is a critically important topic and we have worked hard to ensure that we handle this sensitive issue responsibly.” The Selena Gomez-produced series is set to release its third season sometime this year and hopefully, the streaming app has put in extra safety measures other than a trigger warning at the beginning of its most extreme episodes.

Check out the video above to learn more about Netflix’s reaction to the study.