People often get tattoos that are meaningful to them, using their bodies as a canvas to tell their stories. However, a semicolon tattoo holds its own meaning, one that is powerful and can change lives.
Semicolon Tattoo Trend
Among numerous trends are several confusing or questionable tattoo choices. However, the semicolon tattoo is becoming increasingly popular and holds a powerful meaning. It became popular in 2013 and has since taken off. The semicolon tattoo irepresents mental health struggles, suicide prevention and awareness, and solidarity for those who struggle.
The Tattoo that Inspired a Project
Project Semicolon (tattoo) began on social media in 2013. The creators describe the semicolon tattoo as a “movement dedicated to presenting hope and love to those who are struggling with depression, suicide, addiction, and self-injury. Project Semicolon exists to encourage, love, and inspire.”
Creators Comment
The semicolon tattoo has a powerful message and was carefully selected as the symbol of suicide awareness and prevention. “A semicolon is used when an author could’ve chosen to end their sentence but chose not to. The author is you and the sentence is your life.” Explained the creators.
Early Stages of the Semicolon Tattoo
The movement began as an encouragement for people to draw a semicolon on their bodies. Then they were urged to take a picture and share it on social media. However, it became more popular than anyone imagined. Now, it’s become a popular tattoo choice among those who’ve struggled with mental health. Additionally, it’s popular among those who have loved someone who’s struggled with their mental health.
The movement prompted another trend, The Semicolon Tattoo Project, founded by Jenn Brown and Jeremy Jaramillo. They saw an opportunity to help and seized it, helping to eliminate the stigma around mental health disorders.
Mental Illness is Worth Talking About
Mental illness is common and can be caused by numerous things, including a bad day, suffering from the loss of a loved one, a huge life change, or any number of variables that impact daily life. For example, in 2012 more than 43 million Americans reported they suffered from some mental illness or disorder. A fact that makes it even more alarming that people don’t feel comfortable talking about their condition or reaching out for help.
The Semicolon Tattoo Makes a Big Impact
“The semicolon tattoo is a conversation starter,” explains Jenn. “People ask what it is, and we get to tell them the purpose.”
“I think if you see someone’s tattoo that you’re interested in, that’s fair game to start a conversation with someone you don’t know,” adds Jeremy. “It provides a great opportunity to talk. Tattoos are interesting — marks we put on our bodies that are important to us.”
In 2014, the pair held an event to commemorate the Semicolon Tattoo Project. Those in support could go to one of many tattoo shops to get a semicolon tattoo at a flat rate. “That money was a fundraiser for our crisis center,” said Jenn. More than 400 people got semicolon tattoos on the first day and the local event took off globally.
Support for Those Who Struggle
Along with running their foundation, Jenn and Jeremy also partner with Agora Crisis Center, one of the nation’s oldest crisis centers. The center was founded in 1970 and has since helped thousands of people tackle their mental health disorders and suicidal thoughts, feelings, or plans. Their partnership has allowed the Semicolon Tattoo Project and the Agora Crisis Center to reach a larger audience, helping thousands more people.
A Powerful Message
“I recently decided to get a semicolon tattoo. Not because it’s trendy (though, it certainly seems to be at the moment), but because it’s a reminder of the things I’ve overcome in my life. I’ve dealt with anxiety, depression, and gender dysphoria for the better part of my life, and at times, that led me down a path that included self-harm and suicide attempts.” explains one person who’s been positively impacted by the Semicolon Tattoo Project. But here I am, years later, finally fitting the pieces of my life together in a way I never thought they could before. The semicolon (and the message that goes along with it) is a reminder that I’ve faced dark times, but I’m still here.”
Suicide Prevention
Suicide and mental health disorders are preventable and manageable. However, an open mind to treatment is the most crucial element to finding internal peace and joy. In many cases, the treatment plans can be as simple as getting regular exercise and eating a healthy diet. Or, treatment options can be complex, requiring a series of medications, therapy sessions, and visits to a neurologist to rule out any brain damage or trauma, as these can have an impact on mental health. Remembering you’re loved is a great starting point for finding the help you need.
Finding Your Place
However, as many people often wonder about their place in the world or the lives of those they love, it’s easy to feel as though there isn’t any point to keep living. On the other hand, there are billions of people in the world, and at least a handful of them are bound to be drawn to your energy, your skills, your perspective, and your contributions.
As such, volunteering, joining groups that focus on your hobbies, or trying new skills like a pottery or painting class can help you connect with others and give your life a sense of meaning. Who knows, you may even find someone with a semicolon tattoo, giving you the knowledge that you are not alone.