Monday 16 May 2011

13 Reasons Why; Contemporary Relevance

13 Reasons Why; Contemporary Relevance

One of the majorly explored teen issues in the novel, “13 Reasons Why”, is Teen Suicide. Suicide among young adolescents has had an inclining percentage rate over the last decade.
 
Research has discovered that suicide in the #3 leading cause of death for youngsters ages 15-24.   
     -http://kidshealth.org/parent/emotions/behavior/suicide.html

60% of all suicides in the U.S were committed by guns and firearms. Studies say that teens hoping to avoid causing physical pain to themselves have used/overdosed on pills(drugs). Girls have double the chance of considering suicide compared to boys. Girls have preferred methods such as pills and self-mutilation/cutting.

Warning signs that someone you know is suicidal;
-          substance abuse; drugs, alcohol
-          Withdrawal from family and friends
-          Declining rate in Academics; loses focus in school
-          Risk taking Behaviors
-          Giving away possessions
-          Changes in eating habits and sleeping patterns                                                           

To prevent a loved one or friend from committing suicide;
-Confront the person, listen to them, attentively listen without making judgments
-respect their privacy
-let them know you are available to help at all times
-respect their feelings, ask if there is anything you can do

Ways Suicide relates to the novel;
In the book, the main teen issue portrayed it Teen Suicide, the character Hannah Baker, has commit suicide a few weeks back, but that will not be the last time they have heard of her. This is because Hannah decided to record 13 different tapes about 13 people to explain to them how they were involved in her decision to take her life.

Hannah told those listening to her to not give up, and continue listening to the tapes. But then she said quote; “I’m sorry. I guess that’s an odd thing to say. Because isn’t that what I’m doing? Giving up?”

Hannah commit suicide without realizing how much pain she was causing for her family, friends, teachers, and especially Clay, whom was secretly in love with Hannah.

If you want to learn more information about teenage suicide or haven’t been feeling that great about your life and think that taking it away will be the only escape. Your wrong. There are people can help. People who are willing to listen and will never make judgments.
 This URL will lead you to a website that will give you information and statistics on Suicide and give you signs that describe a suicidal teenager.

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