Abstract

"I had the idea to make a comic about your experience of PTSD. I'd like to understand more about it and I think it could help other people too."

In this illustrated conversation between Samuel C. Williams and his friend, Matt, they talk candidly about Matt's struggles with post-traumatic stress disorder. From scoping out quick exits in coffee shops to re-experiencing traumatic events through triggers as seemingly insignificant as a sound or smell, Matt describes his unique experiences of the condition, how he has learnt to cope with it, and his new career path. This comic will offer support and understanding to anyone who has been affected by PTSD no matter what the cause.

At War with Yourself uses a novel and highly effective way through which to educate people with PTSD and their families, and those potentially at risk, about the nature, features, effects and consequences of PTSD. This short cartoon format book gets this message across in a captivating, unique, engaging and concise style and I commend it highly.
Professor Jamie Hacker Hughes, Military and Veteran Psychologist and Trauma Specialist
Samuel C. Williams is an illustrator and comic artist based in Harrogate, UK.
Structurally, this is an uninvolved narrative in terms of delivery but, like many examples of the communicative power of graphic medicine, that straightforward quality is what makes the book so relatable. Similarly, Williams's visuals trade on lucidity over elaboration, adding an earnest humanity to his storytelling.
Andy Oliver
BrokenFrontier.com
At War with Yourself will help veterans who have a problem with PTSD and related disorders to recognise symptoms and get help. This comic strip is easy to understand and will help to reduce stigma and increase engagement in treatment.
Dr Walter Busuttil, Director of Medical Services, Combat Stress