What is Self Help +(SH+)
● Self-Help Plus (SH+): a five-session stress management program developed by the World Health Organization
● Helps people manage stress, worry, and strong emotions
● Delivered through 5 audio sessions and an illustrated guide with a trained facilitator
● Challenge: Format too long and formal for high school students
● Goal: Adapt SH+ into a youth-friendly format using manga storytelling
The Five Core Skills of SH+
Acting on Values – Doing what truly matters
Being Kind – Showing compassion toward self and others
Making Room – Allowing space for difficult emotions → Each manga volume highlights one SH+ skill → Stories help students see and practice each technique
Grounding – Focusing on the present moment
Unhooking from Worries – Letting go of unhelpful thoughts
Why a Manga Adaptation?
● Manga (or “truyện tranh” in Vietnamese) is one of the most popular storytelling forms in Vietnam with long history
● Makes mental health lessons familiar, and stigma-free
● Easy to distribute or access online
WHO’s Illustration
Adaptation Illustration
I. Character Design
Adaptation Illustration
I. Character Design
Adaptation Illustration
II. Storyboard
Adaptation Illustration
III. Line Art + Background
Comparison (Stress definition)
