The music video for “1-800-273-8255” by Logic (ft. Alessia Cara & Khalid) was released in 2018 to raise awareness regarding teenage suicide and depression. The music video revolves around a high school boy who is shown falling in love with another boy from his school. Through the story, we see how a family’s negative response to queerness can harm the mental health of a developing teen, sometimes to the point of suicidal thoughts or attempts. In the end, we see the boy grow happily into adulthood with a partner, child, and new acceptance from his parents. “1-800-273-8255” is a reference to the former National Suicide Prevention Hotline, which is now simply “988.”

discussion

How do the boy’s parents react when they learn about their son’s sexuality? How do they change towards the end of the video?

Why do you think the main character, like many queer people, hides his sexuality from his parents? 

What significance does the title of the video hold? What was that number used for?

Do you think there is enough support within the school system or for young people struggling with mental health? How could this be improved?