“Hey, it’s Hannah. Hannah Baker…I’m about to tell you the story of my life. More specifically, why it ended.” If these chilling words don’t convince you to watch the newest Netflix original 13 Reasons Why, then maybe these 13 reasons will:

• It does not shy away from important issues. Depression, sexual assault, and substance abuse are just a few of the heavy topics brought to light in this Netflix original. The show is not afraid to highlight real issues that can happen anywhere, even in high school.

• Every little thing matters- and it shows that. As Hannah thinks about taking her own life, we follow her through every encounter when someone could have been a friend, but wasn’t. By seeing all these lonely moments in the past tense, viewers can clearly see that every little action can change a life.

• It puts bullying in the spotlight. When people think of bullying, they often think of the outdated “pushing the nerd into the locker.” 13 Reasons Why updates the bullying stereotype by including technology and focusing on the impact of hurtful rumors.

• It shows that people are not always as they seem. On the outside, Justin (a minor character) seems like the jock that has everything together. Behind closed doors, he lives with his friend because his mother is a drug addict. This show proves that everyone has things that they just don’t talk about.

• It teaches you the warning signs of suicide. Watch all of the characters carefully and you will quickly learn the signs that someone is considering suicide. Know the signs, it could save a life.

• It tackles grief in a real way. Everyone handles loss differently; some are overwhelmed with guilt, some try to avoid thinking of it, some feel suffocated by it, the list goes on. From Hannah’s parents and friends, to the school staff, this show captures how a community struggles to overcome grief.

• It is infinitely helpful for parents of teens. If you can get through the bad language and crude behavior, 13 Reasons Why can be a wonderful aid to parents who have trouble getting through to their teenager. It shows how teens brush off help sometimes, and how to identify and prevent that.

• Hannah isn’t a reliable narrator- and that’s a good thing. As Hannah explains to the audience why she took her own life, we are often reminded that she was only human, and she misread some situations. This allows you to step out of your own head and acknowledge that we all make mistakes, and some can be fatal.

• The soundtrack isn’t what you would think. Through a combination of indie-pop songs, old classics, and new remixes, the music contributes beautifully to this shows contemporary, but sad vibe.

• The cast is remarkable. A diverse collection of talented actors? Yes, please!

• The way time is handled keeps you interested. With the constant switching between present and past tense, this drama keeps you on the edge of your seat trying to keep up.
• The end leaves you shocked to your core. While you may hate cliffhangers, this series leaves you so committed to the characters that you can’t help but watch until the final episode’s screen goes black, and you see your reflection gaping.

“Beyond the reasons.” The final reason you should watch 13 Reasons Why is because it truthfully strives to bring forth important things that often stay hidden. Beyond the Reasons is a commentary piece of the cast and directors discussing the show that I highly encourage you to watch.