Although many believe comics reached their zenith with superheroes saving the world, in reality, they’ve evolved into an incredibly diverse medium. Today, comics span topics as varied as deeply personal stories about mental health, everyday life anecdotes, and profound contemplations on humanity. This vast array means there’s a comic to suit every mood, offering not only entertainment but also a unique reflection of our own experiences.
Some comics serve as unexpected arenas for delving into the complex truths of our inner lives. Although they may not provide all solutions (for such wisdom is beyond anyone), they initiate significant dialogues worth having. In an art form that once propagated the notion that violence was the solution to problems, this shift is quite substantial.
10) The Dark Knight Returns
Frank Miller’s “The Dark Knight Returns” is undeniably one of the seminal works in comic book history, but it also holds significance in discussions about mental health due to its portrayal of Batman’s troubled mind as central to the narrative. After retirement, an older Bruce Wayne (in his mid-50s) struggles with solitude. The city’s din reopens old wounds, pushing him back into the only routine that stills his thoughts – becoming Batman once more. Although vigilantism often takes more than it gives, it provides Bruce with a singular benefit he cannot find elsewhere: focus. However, this focus is not synonymous with well-being; rather, it functions as a rule-bound painkiller, and the story’s most compelling truth is that sometimes, even when rules are involved, a painkiller may be the only thing a person will reluctantly accept.
9) Daredevil: Born Again
Daredevil: Reborn revolves around issues 227 to 233 of Daredevil, centering on Matt Murdock’s life unraveling due to his arch-nemesis Wilson Fisk, aka the Kingpin. When Matt reaches his lowest point, he finds solace in his Catholic faith and the unwavering support of his friends. The narrative conveys a relatable message – no one endures life’s toughest moments on their own. It subtly highlights a contemporary perspective: solo heroics without backing are an illusion; the real triumph lies in persevering through each day with help from others.
8) The Vision
The Vision is a Marvel comic story from the past decade that stands out for its meticulous narrative structure and focus on characters, feeling more like a work of literary science fiction or a Shirley Jackson-esque suburban horror than typical superhero action. Written by Tom King and illustrated by Gabriel Hernandez Walta, it follows the tale of The Vision attempting to establish a “normal” suburban existence by creating a family of synthetic beings. While the intellectual appeal of the sci-fi concept may draw you in, it’s the heartrending portrayal of the yearning for normality and the lengths we justify to achieve it that will keep you engaged and leave you with a poignant feeling.
7) Moon Knight
Moon Knight, commonly referred to as Marvel’s version of Batman, is actually more uniquely complex due to his battle with Dissociative Identity Disorder. This label doesn’t quite capture the intricacies that make him such a distinct hero. Among various captivating story arcs, Jeff Lemire and Greg Smallwood’s 2016-2017 series particularly shines for its thoughtful and empathetic depiction of Marc Spector’s mental health struggles.
The narrative begins with Marc awakening in a psychiatric facility, where medical professionals maintain that his entire superhero existence is an illusion. As the tale unfolds, Marc slips through various realities after managing to leave the hospital and embark on a voyage of self-discovery. The series primarily focuses on Marc taking charge of his life according to his own preferences. It subtly conveys the essence of empowerment as recognizing and embracing all aspects of oneself, while simultaneously rejecting those attempting to dictate one’s narrative.
6) Fun Home
In simpler terms, Alison Bechdel’s graphic novel “Fun Home” recounts her journey growing up as a lesbian in rural Pennsylvania, contrasted with her father’s hidden homosexuality that ultimately led to his suicide. The title, ironically, comes from the family’s funeral home business, a place far from amusing for a child. The book delves into mental health issues, both explicitly and implicitly, as Bechdel shares her struggles with OCD and subsequent therapy, exploring the connection between compulsion and control. Furthermore, “Fun Home” utilizes the comic format to illustrate how individuals develop psychological defense mechanisms when their emotions are left unaddressed.
5) Mister Miracle
Mister Miracle is a character from DC Comics, dreamt up by Jack Kirby during his Fourth World tale. The comic book series focuses on Scott Free, who’s born to Highfather of New Genesis but swapped as part of a truce with Darkseid of Apokolips. Growing up on the ominous Apokolips, Scott ultimately manages to break free and migrates to Earth. On Earth, he earns the title “Mister Miracle” for his remarkable escape acts.
In a 2017-2018 series by Tom King and Mitch Gerads, there’s a darker narrative that unfolds. This version delves into themes of trauma, depression, and the very essence of reality itself. It challenges whether Scott’s “escapes” are genuine experiences or merely elaborate illusions.
For those seeking a story that not only showcases courage but also explores the depths of the human heart, Mister Miracle is truly a work of art.
4) Epileptic
If you appreciate stories that delve deep into personal experiences, then “Epileptic” by David B. (Pierre-François Beauchard) is highly recommended. Originally known as “L’Ascension du Haut Mal” in French, this graphic novel recounts the author’s life alongside his epileptic brother. The brother’s seizures significantly influence their lives, leading the family to explore various unconventional treatments such as mysticism, faith healers, and macrobiotic diets, with limited success. Unlike many stories that offer simple resolutions, “Epileptic” portrays the complex reality of how a disability can impact not only the individual but also those around them.
3) Ink In Water
The graphic memoir ‘Ink in Water’ by Lacy Davis and Jim Kettner resonates deeply with those grappling with body image issues. Lacy, the author, embarks on a health improvement journey but finds herself trapped in a destructive spiral of disordered eating and self-deprecation. The narrative is powerfully presented through a blend of text and captivating black-and-white illustrations, which effectively portray her emotional and physical journey. ‘Ink In Water’ serves as an educational tool without guaranteeing that life transforms into perfection upon starting recovery.
2) I Kill Giants
As a movie critic, I found myself utterly captivated by the heartrending portrayal of childhood grief in the film “I Kill Giants.” At first glance, this may appear as a thrilling fantasy adventure, but upon closer inspection, it becomes clear that it serves as an astute exploration of a young girl’s struggle to cope with overwhelming emotional burdens.
The tale revolves around Barbara Thorson, a tenacious fifth-grader who dons bunny ears and wields a Norse war hammer, claiming to slay giants in her spare time. However, as the narrative unfolds, we are granted a poignant glimpse into Barbara’s life, revealing that she has created this fantastical world as a means of dealing with her mother’s terminal illness and the emotional chasm separating her from her family.
“I Kill Giants” is an emotionally charged journey that resonates deeply with anyone who has wrestled with their own inner demons and emerged stronger for it. The 2017 film adaptation successfully captures much of the story’s raw emotion and depth, making for a powerful cinematic experience that I believe will touch the hearts of many viewers.
1) Black Hole
Charles Burns’ “Black Hole” is a 12-part comic book series from the 1970s that explores adolescent embarrassment and mental health issues. This dark tale unfolds in Seattle, focusing on teenagers who are afflicted by an odd sexually transmitted infection that triggers grotesque physical transformations. Burns brilliantly portrays the universal teenage sensation of feeling profoundly flawed and exposed. The narrative delves into the heavy emotions of loneliness, shame, and the desperate yearning for connection during those tumultuous years when everything seems like a crisis. Although it’s not light-hearted reading for a casual Sunday afternoon, “Black Hole” leaves a lasting impression that sets it apart from many other comics.
So which comic has been your personal lifeline? Drop your comfort read in the comments!
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2025-08-30 20:46