Dear Evan Hansen

Watching Dear Evan Hansen was pretty emotional for me. In order to really dive in and pull out the important messages, I had to take the time and space to think through the story’s themes.
I bet you did, too.

Dear Evan Hansen tackles challenging real-life issues experienced by teens and young people, including anxiety, social isolation, and suicide. Talking about these sensitive subjects can be difficult, but important. In preparing this discussion guide, our hope is that you feel better equipped to begin and continue honest, vulnerable conversations with the people in your life. We also wanted to provide you resources on suicide prevention to add to your discussion. You can find these items here: www.NoMatterWhatYouMatter.org.

Remember that you don’t need to have all the answers. For All Seasons is here for you. Listen without judgment and connect loved ones to professional help when needed. Assistance for individuals in crisis is available 24 hours a day through For All Seasons’ crisis hotlines:

English: 410.820.5600 | Spanish: 410.829.6143 | Text (English/Spanish): 410.829.6143

And, remember, no matter what… you matter.

BETH ANNE LANGRELL
President/CEO
For All Seasons, Inc.

Parents and guardians should consider the film’s PG-13 rating, your views on the subject matter, and the personalities of those with whom you will watch the movie. Before viewing, provide young people with the context that this is a fictional drama, although it is about real challenges that can occur in life.
When watching the film (whether you are an adult or teen), notice what feels similar and what feels different from real life. Are there parts of life the film skips over? Watching the movie with a critical eye can be important to help you compare the similarities and differences to your own experiences.
If you are concerned about someone you know (or yourself), remember that help is available 24 hours a day through For All Seasons’ crisis hotlines.

If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available.

Need to talk? Remember that help is available 24 hours a day through For All Seasons’ crisis hotlines.

Discussion Questions

Do you think the characters in the movie behave in ways similar to people you know? Give an example of a similar behavior you have seen in real life.
What did you notice in the movie that was different from your experiences? Are there parts of life that you feel the movie left out or skipped over?
Have you felt the way that Evan, Connor, or any of the other characters feel? Do you know anyone else who has? What did you do to manage those feelings?
Have you ever wanted to tell an adult about your concern for someone but didn't want to betray a trust or make your friend mad by doing so? When do you think a situation requires getting an adult or professional help, even if your friend doesn't want you to?
Think about the trusted people in your life. Who would you go to for help?

For Immediate Help:
Dial 911 in case of emergency.

24 hour crisis hotlines:
English: 410.820.5600 | Spanish: 410.829.6143
Text (English/Spanish): 410.829.6143

For further information or help:
Visit www.NoMatterWhatYouMatter.org for more suicide prevention resources.

Need to talk? National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
800.273.8255 or chat online

Text HELLO to 741741
The Crisis Text hotline is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week throughout the U.S. The Crisis Text Line serves anyone, in any type of crisis, connecting them with a crisis counselor who can provide support and information.

More Info
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

All free and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.

DEAR COMMUNITY MEMBER,

Tips for Watching the Movie

Questions to Help Start the Conversation

Resources