Because the runaway hit series 13 Reasons Why is distinctly lacking in resources and alternatives for those who are dealing with mental illness, contemplating suicide or living with complicated grief, here are some sites that provide information, encouragement and support.

Please pass along to teens and parents that you know.

The Born This Way Foundation (the non-profit, not the Two-Faced cosmetic brand foundation) is working to end the stigma of mental health issues by empowering youth and (my fav) inspiring bravery. Who couldn’t use a little more inspiration to be brave?

The Society for the Prevention of Teen Suicide provides a list of warning signs and many, many resources to connect to for help.

Live Thru This is a powerful  collection of portraits and stories of suicide attempt survivors, as told by those survivors.

The Trevor Project provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention for LGBTQ youth. It also connects advocates and allies with ways to become involved and be part of the solution.

The It Gets Better Project offers hope, support and encouragement for LGBT youth through stories from happy, successful and thriving LGBT adults who know of what they speak.

The Child Mind Institute is a great place for parents whose children of all ages are struggling with mental health issues. Resources, success stories and support are available here.

The Crisis Text line. Text 741741 from anywhere in the US and get connected to a trained crisis counselor.

The Jed Foundation is a great resource for those seeking help and those seeking to help. If you need support or if you would like to be a more effective helper to those who struggle, this site it for you.

The Dougy Center is a place for teens who are grieving the loss of a loved one. If you are in my area (greater Little Rock, AR), Children’s Hospital has the Center for Good Mourning that provides excellent support for children who are grieving. Your local children’s hospital may have a similar program.

BullyingUK from our neighbors across the pond has some great resources for kids who are being bullied, for parents and for schools.

Teens Againts Bullying  created by and for teens is a place for middle and high school students to “find ways to address bullying, to take action, to be heard, and to own an important social cause.”

Fostering Resilience helps teens understand the causes of stress and create a plan for managing the stress in their lives.

For those who like a step-by-step plan the American Academy of Pediatrics offers a 10-step program in creating your personal stress management plan.

There is help available.

One of the best moments in 13 Reasons Why comes near the end of the last episode when a childhood friend asks the main character, “Are you okay?” and he says, “No…is that alright?” And she says, “Yeah. That’s fine.”

It’s okay to not be okay. There are people who understand. People who can help. There’s no reason for anyone else to make a set of tapes.