I often think about how different things might have been for Sarah, the protagonist in a popular show that has sparked numerous conversations among my high school students. What if she had made it to college? She would have realized that life continues beyond the age of 18, and that it’s possible to reinvent oneself, escaping the shadows of past traumas, towns, or schools that feel confining.
If only her friends, teachers, or family had taken the time to listen more intently or say the right words, perhaps Sarah would have had a narrative to share instead of leaving behind a haunting record of her struggles. This sentiment echoes through my discussions with students, who frequently relate to the urgency and realism presented in the show as they navigate their own fast-paced lives, often dominated by the devices in their pockets.
It was my students who introduced me to the themes of the show—the emotional depth, the poignant details—and I recognized that as a teacher and mentor, it was essential for me to engage with this material. The series has been compared to classic coming-of-age stories, but it notably sidelines adult perspectives, making it all the more crucial for me to listen to my students’ experiences.
In our discussions, I shared some of my own teenage challenges, which none of the characters in the show had the chance to express. Having faced depression and mental health struggles myself, I understand the importance of fostering open conversations about these issues. My main takeaway from the series is the necessity for kids to hear adults discussing mental health and the realities of suicide.
While it’s vital for young people to feel heard, they also need to receive messages from parents and educators that resonate with their struggles—messages that Sarah, her friend Jake, and the other characters in the show so desperately needed.
Driven by this realization, I initiated a project with my students using the hashtag #13ReasonsYouMatter. I encouraged my freshmen, juniors, and seniors to write brief notes of encouragement to their peers. My role was to participate as an adult ally. The task was simple: each student penned a note that reflected something they wished they had heard during tough times or a sentiment they believed would uplift someone else. I also began sharing these notes on social media, leading to an inspiring wave of responses.
We ended up posting over 300 notes around the school, and students eagerly snapped photos to share with their friends, utilizing platforms they felt more comfortable on than Facebook.
I urge all educators, parents, community leaders, and mental health advocates to take this moment to share your stories—whether of survival, resilience, or understanding the impacts of mental illness—using #13ReasonsYouMatter or in whatever way suits you best. It’s important that while these students are captivated by narratives like the one in the show, they also have adults in their lives who can convey stories of hope and healing beyond high school.
For anyone who has faced the struggles of depression or suicidal thoughts, your experiences can offer invaluable insight to today’s youth. They are listening, consuming content at an incredible pace, and now is the time to share your messages of strength.
As you reflect on your own journey, consider the messages you would want to impart to young minds grappling with mental health challenges. What encouragement could you offer to those who face bullying, anxiety, or despair in our fast-paced digital world?
Whatever you are enduring, remember to persevere and use your experiences to inspire others. Leave a note of hope for someone else to discover.
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In summary, let’s amplify the voices of both young people and adults who have navigated mental health challenges. By sharing our stories and encouraging one another, we can create a supportive community that fosters understanding and hope.
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