SUPER RAISES CAUTION OVER '13 REASONS WHY' SERIES

Joining other New Jersey school districts, Nutley Superintendent Julie Glazer cautions children's viewing of the Netflix series, "13 Reasons Why."

According to her letter to parents, the series, based on a 2007 young adult book, delves into the topic of teen suicide. The main character, Hannah, takes her life and leaves behind cassette tapes, containing messages for those she considers to have pushed her to suicide.

Many school counselors, mental health professionals and educators have serious concerns about the way this topic is presented, Glazer states.

"While we can all agree that the topic is relevant and worth a conversation with your child, I want to alert you that some experts feel that this series glorifies teen suicide and depicts it in a way in which the viewer may feel that suicide is the only way out of a challenging or depressing time period," she writes.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide is the third-leading cause of death among American young people, between 10- and 24-years-old, she states.

Referring to a National Association of School Psychologists release, Glazer writes that "copycat" behavior is one of the main concerns experts have regarding the series.

"Along with the district's principals, school counselors and administrators, I urge you to have a conversation with your child if they are watching this series or considering watching it," she continues. "While it may be difficult, watching it together as a family, may also be an option."

Glazer recommended the following mental health resources:

National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK

NJ Hopeline: 1-855-NJ-HOPELINE (654-6735)

2nd Floor Youth Helpline: 888-222-2228 (call or text)

Email: proctor@northjersey.com