Crisálida, la Historieta Gráfica y sus Posibilidades Como Expresión Artística y Terapeutica

Abstract

The mental health of children and young people has become an increasingly concerning issue worldwide. According to UNICEF (2024), in 2020, 14 percent of young people globally (approximately 168 million) suffered from some type of mental disorder. In Colombia, according to the Ministry of Health, 66.3 percent of the population reported having experienced a mental health issue in 2023 (Minsalud, 2023). Among children and youth, this figure reaches up to 44 percent. Violence, poverty, inequality, social disintegration, and the use of psychoactive substances have all contributed to this grim outlook in the country. Anxiety and depression are the most common mental health conditions among young people in Colombia (Office of the Inspector General, 2023).

In this monograph, I aim to design a pedagogical tool or device that, in addition to using graphic novels, incorporates art to help young people educate and express themselves regarding their mental health—but above all, to learn to trust themselves. Prevention and care at different stages are crucial, and in this regard, graphic art can be an important tool.