Reframing the risks of youth substance use and our mental health crisis.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
We developed “What’s Up With Tess?”, an interactive graphic novel designed to help teens recognize the signs of substance use and learn how to support a friend who may be struggling. Rooted in research and informed by real conversations with youth, parents, and caregivers, the experience uses storytelling to make complex and sensitive topics more approachable and relatable for a teen audience.
Developed as part of a larger integrated campaign, the graphic novel and full story can be experienced at the Free Minds campaign page.
The graphic novel was developed in response to expressed desires by parents and caregivers for an interactive tool. The interactive graphic novel lives on the Free Mind campaign site alongside campaign fact sheets, helpful tips, and conversation starters. Guides and templates are also available for partners to customize and localize campaign messages for states and communities.
FULL PROJECT CREDITS
Client: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
President - Strategic Creative & Communications: Eduardo Sarmiento
Chief Creative Officer: Russell Hayer
Executive Creative Director: Aerien Mull
Creative Director: Colin Barnes
Senior Art Director: Bronie Brunet, Melissa Pierce, Sue Razz
Art Director: Dani Simmons, Jill Responte
Interactive Programming: Skilan Ortiz, Alexis Sharma, Janet Weisenford
Copywriters: Matt Namey, Alyssa Grubstein
Account Executive: Jen Bender, Petalia Johnson
INFO
Created in 2024 with Fors Marsh
PROJECT ROLE (Graphic Novel Only)
Art Direction, UI, Storyboarding, Illustration