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Abstract
One of the most notable literary developments of the early 21st century has been the rise of the graphic novel, a format that combines panel-style illustrations and text to present full-length narratives. Within this trend, a growing number of works have emerged that address health and illness, a field now widely referred to as “graphic medicine.” These texts resonate with diverse audiences: patients, who see their own experiences reflected; caregivers, who gain insight into the challenges of loved ones; and medical professionals, who seek to deepen their capacity for patient-centered care. This project focuses specifically on graphic novels that depict experiences of mental illness, a subject of profound relevance given that approximately one in five adults experiences mental illness each year. By documenting and analyzing these works, this study highlights the role of graphic medicine in illuminating personal and societal understandings of mental health.