Traumatic Stress Wales

Cardiff & Vale University Health Board came to us to produce explainer videos that would clearly illustrate a patient’s journey through treatment. The focus was on people dealing with trauma or PTSD, looking for advice on assessment and treatment. Our goal? To show how treatment can boost mental health and emphasise why seeking help is a positive step.

The mission was straightforward: craft a narrative that balances the emotional and technical aspects of treatment, especially for those dealing with PTSD. The challenge? Break down complex medical processes while connecting emotionally with the audience.

Cardiff & Vale University Health Board wanted a warm, reassuring tone—nothing too clinical—that would resonate with viewers and guide them toward seeking help from their GP. Given the sensitive nature of the topic, we needed to handle the creative approach with care and respect.

To strike the balance, we developed two animated films depicting a patient’s journey through treatment. The animations were designed to be evocative, dynamic, and approachable, offering hope and clarity. We introduced the character early on and guided viewers through their journey, letting them feel the emotions firsthand.

We chose a visual style that represented both the internal and external experiences of trauma. Using a character-led approach, we integrated metaphorical visuals to deepen the emotional impact and make the content more engaging.

To set the two animations apart while keeping a consistent look, we used unique monochromatic color schemes. We added contrasting light scenes and heavy grain effects to enhance contrast and create a sense of movement.

As the patient’s journey evolved, the animation mirrored this transformation. Our character designs were intended to be relatable and human, giving viewers a touchstone for connection. This setup allowed us to explore experimental and abstract visuals as the story deepened, especially in scenes transitioning between internal and external experiences.

Voiceover was crucial in setting the right tone. We needed it to feel genuine and personal, avoiding a standard corporate read in favor of a delivery that felt like someone was genuinely sharing their experiences. If it sounded rehearsed, it wouldn’t have achieved the intended emotional impact. To complement the voiceover, we selected an ambient, tranquil music track that underscored the narrative and enhanced the overall mood.

Sound design played a key role as well. It was important for the audio to elevate the voiceover and create an immersive experience that aligned with the visuals. Our aim was to ensure the sound complemented the personal, heartfelt tone of the voiceover, deepening the emotional impact of the content.

The end result was a pair of animated films that not only explained the technical aspects of the treatment pathway but also struck a deep emotional chord. By focusing on the patient’s experiences and feelings, we created content that was informative, comforting, and inspiring for those affected by PTSD.

This project showed how animation and thoughtful storytelling can make complex medical information accessible and emotionally engaging. The films offered a unique, empathetic perspective on the treatment journey, providing viewers with understanding and hope.