Contemporary Relevance

13 Reasons Why ; Contemporary Relevance By: Nillani Nithi 09E

Contemporary Relevance- Provide information on one of the teen issues that is explored in your novel. Include 3 key ideas, 3 ways it relates to the novel, and 1 source or group where teens can get help or find out more info on this issue. 
Teen Suicide:
A very common teen issue in our world today is Teen Suicides. The tragedy of a young person dying because of overwhelming hopelessness or frustration. Thirteen Reasons Why is a novel based on a Teen suicidal issue. The reasons behind a teen's suicide or attempted suicide can be complex. Although suicide is relatively rare among children, the rate of suicides and suicide attempts increases tremendously during adolescence.Suicide is the third-leading cause of death for 15- to 24-year-olds, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), after accidents and homicide. 
This topic relates to Thirteen Reasons Why because  the main character in the novel has commited suicide recently leaving behind 13 recording tapes explaining her reasons why. Hannah thought this was the only choice she had but didn't realize how much pain she was causing for her family, friends, teachers, and especially Clay, whom was secretly in love with Hannah.  Even though Hannah admits that the decision to take her life was entirely her own, it's important to be aware of how we treat others. Even though someone appears to shrug off a sideways comment or to not be affected by a rumor, it's impossible to know everything else going on in that person's life, and how we might be adding to his/her pain. People do have an impact on the lives of others; that's undeniable. 

Suicide Prevention:
What to Do
Youth who feel suicidal are not likely to seek help directly; however, parents, school personnel, and peers can recognize the warning signs and take immediate action to keep the youth safe. When a youth gives signs that they may be considering suicide, the following actions should be taken:
Remain calm.
Ask the youth directly if he or she is thinking about suicide.
Focus on your concern for their wellbeing and avoid being accusatory.
Listen.
Reassure them that there is help and they will not feel like this forever.
Do not judge.
Provide constant supervision. Do not leave the youth alone.
Remove means for self-harm.
Get help: Peers should not agree to keep the suicidal thoughts a secret and instead should tell an adult, such as a parent, teacher, or school psychologist. Parents should seek help from school or community mental health resources as soon as possible. School staff should take the student to the designated school mental health professional or administrator.

  
If you are feeling suicidal, or have a plan to commit suicide, please call 9-1-1.
You can also call Kids Help Phone to speak to a counsellor: 1-800-668-6868. We can help you. You don’t have to handle this on your own.