You may recall the public discussion generated by the Netflix series "13 Reasons Why" last year. This show was widely watched by teenagers last year.

Themes of suicide, sexual assault, consent, bullying and other issues made some viewers feel distressed and in need of support. Season Two is about to be released (May 18) and it will also expose viewers to similar themes.

In the lead-up to the release, some young people may re-watch the first season, or watch it for the first time. Many young people feel the show represents the issues they face. Banning, or recommending a ban on viewing it, can also be potentially harmful, as young people may still watch it but feel they have to hide that from adults.

The issues raised in the series are significant, and offer a good opportunity to talk to your daughter about these difficult life events - but it is important that those conversations are safe ones. We would like to ensure that information is available to support, and encourage, safe conversations between young people and their parents, or another trusted adult, if they view this series.

Some of this information is already available on the resource hub on the Mental Health Foundation website. "13 Reasons Why" is not the only challenging series young people are watching, but it is one of the most talked about. The Office of Film and Literature Classification has released a guide for parents: Talking with young people about what they’re watching.

If you are concerned about a young person, please reach out for help. The Mental Health Foundation have a list of contacts. Support is also available from a trained counsellor anytime by calling or texting 1737. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call your District Health Board:

0800 46 78 46 (Push 2 for Otago Mental Health Service. This is available 24/7).

If there is immediate danger, call 111.

If you need to talk you can call a helpline:

• Lifeline: 0800 543 354
• Rape Crisis: 0800 883 300
• Youthline: 0800 376 633 or free text 234
• Samaritans: 0800 726 666
• Depression Helpline: 0800 111 757
• Suicide Prevention Helpline: 0508 828 865
• You can also make a time to talk to Mrs Crowe our School Counsellor.
• Email: cr@otagogirls.school.nz