Lauren Evans

‘MAN UP (or don’t)’ is series of comic strips following the journey of a memorable character – the ‘blue boy’, who viewers can hopefully project themselves onto, targeted toward a young teenage audience with the intent to express the realities of men’s mental health. I feel that men’s mental struggles are lesser so represented than women’s, and so these illustrations exist to tackle the stigma and stereotypes surrounding ‘toxic masculinity’, opening the floor for thought and discussion. This includes ways in which mental illness is perceived, and how it can truly impact an individual. The comic illustrations aim to encourage young people to pay more attention to men’s mental health, feeling more comfortable to speak out on their own behalf, and to reach out to those around them, friend and family alike, hopefully starting more of a supportive narrative.