so i finished watching the show a few days ago, but i've just been feeling so much and ughhh

i read the book when i was younger, but quickly lost interest. i'd like to say i'm more mature now, and so it was easy to get into the plot of the show and sympathise with the characters.

i won't overanalyse or anything, but i just wanted to mention how happy i was that the show was made.

suicide is such a taboo subject and people tend to blame it on the person who killed themselves without considering their circumstances. the show puts into focus how simple words and actions from people around you can build up and push you to that point.

additionally, the show mentions things that can affect people and push them to the point of suicide and how to look for clues. for example, the last few episodes teaches you a lot about depression. i talked to my friend and she was unaware of this, but hannah clearly shows many symptoms of depression, and i feel like this can play a minor role in helping others identify it. we can see that hannah doesn't feel anything, a major symptom of depression ("i don't care. i just don't care about anything anymore."). we see her grow away from the people she is closest too ("go away mom." "clay doesn't like me anymore.") this is a major indication of depression and there are so many other little things scattered throughout the show.

it's also emphasised how every little thing can make a difference and how standing by someone could literally save them.

it made me so emotional and if you haven't seen it go watch it right now. it's a work of art.

also, if you have seen it, did you listen to the tapes all at once, or did it sometimes get too much and you had to take breaks?

i'm definitely clay, it took me so long.

tldr; the show is amazing at raising awareness of mental illness and suicide, and the signs and how to help someone. anyone who hates on it is obviously discounting this. and i'm shit at explaining my feelings.

if you're having suicidal thoughts, use this website to find someone to talk to. http://www.suicide.org/international-suicide-hotlines.html or call 116 123 if you're in the u.k.

✌️rachel