sheryden | Criminal Minds--Elephant's Memory (Reply)

I'm not sure what I want to say about the episode, because part of me is still processing it. While I'm pleased the episode finally resolved--or at least acknowledged--Reid's situation to some extent, while leaving the door open for further exploration. That said, there were some problems with the episode.

I'm still disappointed that it took the writers this long to address Reid's drug problem, and I have to admit that finding out Reid "stopped 10 months ago" was a little jarring. When did this happen? What prompted it? Drug addicts don't normally just quit. Did Gideon and Hotch intervene? Did the Bureau send him to detox? All of these questions have been conveniently shoved in the closet unanswered.

I enjoyed learning more about Reid's past. The bullying he received from other students was brutal, but I think the inclusion of that information adds quite a bit to his character. MGG did a lovely job of communicating his bitterness, shame, and hurt when Reid told Morgan about the episode. And kudos to the writers for remembering Reid's mother is schizophrenic.

One of the biggest issues I had with the episode, though, was Hotch's handling of Reid on the plane ride home. Remember a couple of seasons ago, when Elle went nuts and killed someone? Right. Apparently, Hotch doesn't. At the least, Hotch should have made Reid take some time off and see a counselor. That would have been the responsible thing to do. And when Hotch said that Reid's "movie" wasn't his business? Sorry, but is his business. He needs to know if a member of his team is in emotional trouble. The lives of every member of his team depends on it.