In a charming twist, artist Mia Thompson draws herself as a quirky raccoon in her comic series, The Raccoon Chronicles. At 28, Thompson uses this furry alter ego as a way to navigate her personal struggles with mental health, while also sidestepping the pressures of body image. Although the raccoon provides a lighthearted escape, the comics tackle serious themes such as anxiety and depression head-on.
“When I first started creating these comics, it was a fun challenge — to sketch a comic every day for a month,” Thompson shared. “But as I dove deeper, I began to focus on my own life experiences, including creative blocks, my mental battles, and the challenges within various communities. It became a cathartic outlet for me, especially since I was only seeing a therapist occasionally. The comics became a way to articulate my feelings and connect with others facing similar struggles.”
The relatable scenarios depicted in her comics are drawn from Thompson’s journey with generalized anxiety disorder, depression, and the compulsive skin-picking habit known as dermatillomania. “Initially, I hesitated to share my unfinished sketches, but the response has been overwhelming,” said the Toronto-based artist.
Creating The Raccoon Chronicles has proven to be immensely fulfilling for Thompson. “Hiding your mental health issues is like slowly poisoning your spirit, chipping away at who you are,” she expressed. “Seeking assistance can be daunting, especially for those who are anxious! Taking that first step toward healing is monumental. Cultivating self-love amidst the struggle is just as vital.”
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In summary, Mia Thompson’s comic series is an authentic exploration of the inner workings of anxiety and depression, using humor and relatable illustrations to create a supportive space for those grappling with similar issues.