Teenage suicide drama 13 Reasons Why is adding a new video warning as it returns for a second series.
The Netflix show about a girl who ends her own life was a hit but drew criticism from some parents and mental health experts who suggested it could glamorise suicide.
The streaming service has now said a video will air ahead of the first episode of each season, with cast members cautioning viewers about the tough topics in the programme and telling viewers how to get support if they need it.
The clip shows Justin Prentice, who plays Bryce, saying: “13 Reasons Why is a fictional series that tackles tough, real world issues, taking a look at sexual assault, substance abuse, suicide and more.”
His co-star Alisha Boe, who plays Jessica, says: “But if you are struggling with these issues yourself, this series may not be right for you. Or you may want to watch it with a trusted adult.”
The video is being introduced after the results of a research study commissioned by Netflix to look at “whether and how the series opened dialogue between teens and parents”.
Netflix’s vice president of original series, Brian Wright, said on the company’s blog that while research indicated the majority of parents felt the show brought up important topics, they wanted more resources.
Changes to be implemented include the custom introduction with the cast and additional resources on 13ReasonsWhy.Info, including a viewing guide. There will also be a season two after show.
The first series of the show was based on the 2007 novel by Jay Asher and tells the story of a teenage boy who is sent a box from classmate Hannah (Katherine Langford) who killed herself, containing 13 tapes explaining the reasons she ended her life.