Experts are looking into the relationship between the latest episode of “13 Reasons Why” and the increase of online searches on suicide.
The beginnings of a controversial series
The series “13 Reasons Why” has been controversial ever since the release of its first episode last March. The Netflix series is based on the best-selling book with the same title. The book which was released in 2011 was written by Jay Asher. The series is produced by famous singer Selena Gomez.
The series revolves around the story of Hannah Baker, a teenager who committed suicide.
Before taking her own life, Hannah Baker left 13 cassette tapes, each was dedicated to one of her friends. The tapes narrated how she was bullied and revealed the reasons why she decided to take her life.
Viewers have opposing views about the series. Many believe that the series is helpful in promoting public awareness about suicide. However, many others raise their concern, arguing that the series was triggering suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
“13 Reasons Why” and its impact on online searching history
A research published in JAMA Internal Medicine suggests that the series had a huge influence to viewers’ online searches. According to the letter, searches on suicide Related Topics increased after the show aired its first episode.
The most notable increase in online traffic was related to searches about how to commit suicide. Statistics reveal that web searches related to inquiries on how to commit suicide increased by 26% while inquiries on suicide prevention and suicide contact numbers also increased by 23% and 21%, respectively. Online search history further shows that web searches for suicide related topics increased by 19% within two weeks following the series’ premiere.
The researchers clarified that they cannot be certain that web searches related to suicide all came from people who were contemplating on taking their own lives. Medical experts say that the producers of “13 Reasons Why” should consider seeking professional advice so as to mitigate the obvious impact of the show to its viewers.
Suicide prevention specialists encourage the show to take precautionary steps before things get out of hand.
It is difficult to prove that the series actually caused the sudden increase in people’s curiosity on suicide. Nevertheless, practicing medical professionals believe that the series has an impact on its viewers, most especially to the younger and vulnerable ones. With the concern at hand, mental health experts are calling for adjustments to the show’s upcoming episodes.
