No rest : concept campaign raising awareness of MECFS among unaffected audiences

Abstract

Visual communication has the power to challenge stigmas and public opinion. Social media campaign can increase awareness and understanding of a complex chronic disease that is Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS). Despite its severe impact on millions of patients, it remains largely unrecognised and invisible, both in public and in healthcare. Through the combination of literature review, surveys, and interviews, this thesis investigates how design can help with challenging this negligence. The research fueled the creation of a campaign centred around lived experiences and respect. Key themes of invisibility, loneliness and loss are translated into visuals through considered use of tone, imagery and colour. The result that is the concept campaign demonstrates how design and visual communication can be used as an educational tool for social and health advocacy.