What is a semicolon tattoo?
Yes, these tattoos can be small, but the meaning of semicolon tattoos are huge…
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In writing, the semicolon separates two thoughts but indicates they share something in common. Everyday individuals that don’t write often might never use the semicolon. It’s becoming one of the most popular tattoos in the country right now, though.
- Symbol of Hope and Perseverance: A semicolon tattoo represents hope and resilience for those who have faced mental health challenges. It signifies a pause in life’s sentence, not an end. The movement behind this tattoo aims to foster solidarity and reduce stigma around mental health and suicide.
- Project Semicolon: Originating from the personal experiences of Amy Bleuel, the semicolon tattoo symbolizes the choice to continue one’s story and the strength to overcome adversity. By getting a semicolon tattoo, individuals honor their struggles and create a supportive community.
- Grammatical Meaning: In writing, a semicolon connects two related but independent thoughts. Symbolically, the semicolon tattoo represents the idea of continuation in life’s journey, even in the face of adversity. It serves as a reminder that life does not end with a period but rather continues with the strength to move forward and grow.
- Conversation Starter: A semicolon tattoo is more than just a visual representation; it often sparks conversations. People get it to honor someone, raise awareness, or simply express their resilience. The flexibility of the design has led to beautifully customized pieces of ink.
- Personalization: Semicolon tattoos can be personalized in various ways. Here are some examples:
- Butterfly: Using a semicolon as the body of a butterfly, symbolizing beginnings, ends, and new life.
- Miniscule: A subtle nod with classic placement on the wrist.
- Heart: Pairing a heart with a comma beneath for extra symbolism.
- Floral: Integrating the semicolon within a floral wreath.
- Sun: Replacing the traditional period with a subtle sun design.
Remember, a semicolon tattoo represents mental health awareness, resilience, and the strength to keep going. It’s a powerful and meaningful choice for those who wear it.
Update: I’ve been home 3 weeks now recovering before I return to work. I’m sitting under this light every moment I get the chance. Sundown is no longer a trigger for sadness and dispaire. Come on Winter Solstice, I’ve got something for you. I’m also under a doctors care for my depression but this is the best I’ve felt in 2 decades. ❤️ Verilux HappyLight Compact Personal, Portable Light Therapy Energy Lamp.
Tattoo artists continue to draw small semicolons onto thousands of eager customers’ bodies.
But why? What does a semicolon tattoo mean?
Amy Bleuel fought against mental illness and depression throughout her life.
In fact, she lost her father to suicide some time ago.
That spurred Bleuel to create Project Semicolon in 2013. The project started as a way of honoring her father, and now it symbolizes hope for a countless number of people.
Project Semicolon’s website makes a simple statement on this punctuation mark.
The semicolon tattoo meaning: It states that the optional semicolon continues a sentence rather than ending one like an abrupt period.
Therefore, each human being is the author that chooses to keep the sentence (life) going on. Many individuals struggling with depression, self-harm and other ailments can embrace the semicolon.
They can relate to the sentence-ending (life-ending) period, too.
In 2015, my husband took his own life after battling bi-polar disease his entire adult life. I now have a semi-colon tattoo on my wedding ring finger to recognize his struggle. One day, a waitress noticed the tattoo and, in obvious recognition of its meaning, simply said, “I like your tattoo.” We smiled, in a comforting sisterhood.
A Message From Project Semicolon
Based in Green Bay, Wisconsin, Project Semicolon attempts to tell each person that the story isn’t over.
It’s a faith-based nonprofit that encourages each person to keep battling depression, self-harm and other issues.
The semicolon originally represented its founder’s father. Since then, it has grown to represent millions of people that want to share their stories and continue them until the proper ending is written. Please don’t suffer in silence.
You Can Help! Encourage, love and inspire ppl struggling with depression.
Project Semicolon is all about inspiration.
Tattooing businesses across the country have reported an increase in semicolon tattoo requests. Such awareness has helped Project Semicolon increase the visibility of its cause and plight.
Jazymn Case works at the popular 717 Tattoo and Body Piercing business. It’s based in Harrisburg, and she’s performed over 10 semicolon tattoo designs recently. She notes that people do it for themselves and others that they know.
Similarly, J.D. Brosius from Never Say Die Tattoo and Body Piercing has performed almost 20 such tattoos. That parlor is located in Harrisburg as well. A similar story is playing out for tattoo artists around the United States.
The owner of Red Beard Ink, Robert Treat, notes that six semicolon tattoos have been inked in the past week. In an interview, he mentioned a couple that tattooed the semicolon and the date of their first meeting on themselves.
Treat notes that he never asks what the story is behind the tattoo, but he can often make inferences nonetheless.
Mental Illness: A Growing Problem In America
As mental illness rates continue to rise, the issue remains a mostly invisible one.
Everyone seems to talk about all other issues, except for mental health. An American takes his or her own life every 13 minutes nowadays. In a single year, that tally reaches a cumulative 40,000 Americans. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention notes that most suicide victims suffered from diagnosable disorders.
Suicide is even the 10th most common cause of death in the country.
Even though such a preventable cause of death should be fought against, we remain silent on the problem. Issues like STDs and even homicide are commonplace on television. For whatever reason, mental health topics seem to bring out the pitchforks for the whistleblower on such problems.
An invisible problem can only worsen, and that’s going to be the case for depression, self-harm, suicide, and other mental health topics.
The cause of increasing rates of mental illnesses is not exactly know, but major factors include biological, genetics and environmental factors and physical activity says Steve Frazier from Elliptical Consumers[1].
A Problem That Receives Lackluster Support and Care
Unfortunately, men and women battle depression for their entire lives.
It never disappears completely because a resurgence can occur without warning. This can happen every couple days or every few years. One day a person feels incredible, and then they feel terrible the next day.
Few individuals that suffer from mental health problems seek medical attention. In the beginning, they don’t want others to see them struggle. An admission of a problem makes people feel weak.
After dealing with the issue long enough, help simply seems impossible.
Heather Parrie received a semicolon tattoo to support Project Semicolon. She wasn’t supporting a friend or family member, though. To the contrary, she did it for herself after publicly revealing a diagnosis for depression and anxiety. Parrie is a blogger that resides in Kansas City, Missouri.
She blogged about the experience on her website. What does a semicolon tattoo cost? For $60, she let a stranger with a Jesus tattoo adorning his head ink a semicolon onto her wrist. Parrie plans to keep the mark there until her last breath.
The semicolon tattoo is a promise to herself.
To Parrie, that promise is that she’ll never put the period after her sentence by choice.
Parrie mentions that the stigma associated with mental illness is still strong. Her goal is to bring up a major conversation about mental health in the country.
After feeling stigmatized, she now wants people to realize something about mental health problems.
She wants people to see the semicolon on her wrist and know that they’ll be OK at some point in the future. When people see the tattoo on others, they can realize that they’re sick but not alone or crazy. The story can always go on as the author keeps on writing.
Individuals don’t have to feel like failures or feel like they’re receiving pity.
Stories From People Just Like You
Stories from our readers.
I got my semicolon tattooed last year, I got it on my right index finger as I am right handed and I keep writting my story. Several persons have asked about it, and I have explained what is it and why people get it. Normally I don’t say much about my own story, I prefer to aknowledge that mental health is something to take seriously and that there are many people that are affected. For me, it truly is a “weapon” to open and start the conversation about mental health and I hope more people will ask about it. Remeber, there is hope and there are options, better than ending ones life. It is hard, but if you are willing to work on yourself and fight you will get better, it takes time, but life can be really beautiful. So please, continue writting your story. -bth
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I’m only 17 but I feel I have a lifetime of experience. Last year, I lost my dad after an 8 month battle with stage 4 cancer. He was the dad that wanted to be everyone’s best friend and I love and miss him everyday. Since his passing, I have been diagnosed with depression, PTSD, and insomnia. That was a few months after he died and I went to grief therapy. I had to stop going because all I did was talk and relive those heartbreaking events from those eight months. Watching someone you love give up the fight to live because of an illness that is taking over their body is a nightmare to watch let alone live.
I’m currently finishing up my senior year of high school. Many people have asked me if I’ll miss high school. I won’t. I’ll miss maybe 5 people and my choir class and thats it. I don’t want to look back on these past four years and have this roller coaster as my memories.
I decided once I turn 18, I’m going to get a semicolon tattoo. I have thought about self harm but I knew once I did that I would never get back on track. I would have panic attacks daily and have my PTSD trigger which has my depression following right behind it. I would plaster on this fake smile and pretend to be ok. I know now that its alright to show emotion. So I want the tattoo as a reminder that it is ok to let people in and ask for help. I might get the words “my story is just beginning” as well but thats still debateable. But, in the end I’m glad I am getting this because it provides self reassurance as well as bringing up questions and i can tell my story. -Melissa
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I won’t go into much detail here, but I have a history of bad mental health, and my lowest point put me in the hospital for three days. My greatest escape is through musical theatre ( I have a BA in theatre arts) and reading and writing. I decided to mash these two up into my very first tattoo which I got done a week ago. For anyone who has seen/listened to Hamilton, you’ll know the song “Wait For It” is a really big moment for Aaron Burr. We get a glimpse into his past and his true nature. The song struck a chord with me (heh no pun intended) as I realized I am very much like Burr in the musical. Ambitious, a dreamer, but in a sit and watch before making a move kind of way. So on the inside of my left forearm I have “inimitable ; original” . People ask my why I got it and I usually just say “they’re lyrics from my favorite song of my favorite show” but really, it’s so much more than that. It’s a reminder that there is no one like me, that I have a lot to offer the world, but that I am also not alone in my struggles. Anyone who sees it and know the show and/or the semicolon meaning will understand and hopefully know that they are not alone either. -Rhianna
Introducing Me. You are heroes/heroines. We are warriors.
Semicolon Tattoo News & Updates
Read our new review of the CES Ultra (by Adam S, Lexington Kentucky).
Amy Bleuel ended her life on Thursday March 23rd 2017.
Write to me about anything related to a semicolon tattoo, mental health or the project semicolon.
My story still isn’t over.
Four years ago, I tried to kill myself and nearly succeeded. I drank two bottles of liquid sleeping medicine and about half a bottle of sleeping pills and curled up and tried to sleep. I woke up in the middle of the night so dizzy I couldn’t even sit up. I my heart was beating so slowly, could barely even detect it. I was terrified I cried and prayed and begged God not to let me die. I forced myself to drink half a gallon of water, crawled my way to the bathroom, went pee, crawled back and tried to force myself to sleep. I woke up the next morning feeling horrible but glad I was still alive. I told myself I would make a change and force myself to get better. (Hence the semicolon in the middle of the heartbeat).
A year ago (2018), between Christmas and New year’s I had another bad depression day. I was actively seeking a way to cause harm to myself. My (now) husband got so worried about me, he had no choice but to call 911 and have the cops take me to the hospital before I caused more harm to myself than I already had. Because of this, I was finally able to see a psychiatrist and get diagnosed, and get the medical help I needed.
It wasn’t perfect, the wheel of trying different meds made me feel worse something and better others, but I finally got what I needed to make my life more than just a rollercoaster of extreme highs and extreme lows. It was something I may not have wanted but my life is livable now. And I’m so glad for that.
In the years since my last real attempt at suicide, I’ve meet so many people, and done so many things. It may have still been years between that and getting the help I need, but every moment has been worth living. My story is not over yet. On fact, it’s just getting good.
I got my semicolon tattooed last year, I got it on my right index finger as I am right handed and I keep writting my story. Several persons have asked about it, and I have explained what is it and why people get it. Normally I don’t say much about my own story, I prefer to aknowledge that mental health is something to take seriously and that there are many people that are affected.
For me, it truly is a “weapon” to open and start the conversation about mental health and I hope more people will ask about it.
Remeber, there is hope and there are options, better than ending ones life. It is hard, but if you are willing to work on yourself and fight you will get better, it takes time, but life can be really beautiful. So please, continue writting your story.
As someone who has been diagnosed with bipolar and depression..i have had to face some dark days that have made me think of committing suicide..luckily im still here fighting..but i know that for others the fight is too much..after losing a young man i knew to Suicide in the last few days..im feeling the pain of the loss and also its reminding me of my own struggles.im thinking about having the semi colon tattoo as a reminder of him and also to remind me to fight on.ive read all the comments and want to say to everyone you are an inspiration for speaking about ur dealings with depression..whether ur own illness or someone around you..keep fighting..we can all survive this..peace out
Every day i draw a semicolon on my left wrist with a permanent marker (too young for tattoo). It reminds me of my failed suicide attempts, and how sad my life is. To me its a symbol that shows strength, a symbol that stands hope. I really want someone to notice the semicolon so they can see how i am in need of help because i am too scared to tell everyone how i feel. To everyone with this tattoo, you are not alone.
I have had a gift certificate for a second tattoo for several years now. I didn’t know what to get…..I think I’ve found my answer as my brother-in-law committed suicide 2 years ago.
I am a getting the semicolon tattoo for myself because I have survived two Suicide attempts. Which means God wants me here for a reason. I suffer from depression/anxiety it is very hard some days. I am now try to help others that struggle with many mental illness overcome them and comfort them thru the trying time letting them know they are not alone and try to be a listener ear for them
Without getting into too much detail I have experienced multiple traumas that have left me scarred. I grew up not understanding why I was the way I was. It wasn’t until my early twenties that I fully understood. Knowing I’m not alone really helps me get through the tough days. I got my semi-colon just a couple days ago and every time I look at it it makes me smile knowing I decided to keep the sentence (life) going, and that I’m part of a community that understands the struggle.
I had lost my sister to suicide 8 years ago. I lost a brother April 8th of this year then 31 days later May 9th i lost a brother to this ugly monster. All my siblings gone . My tattoo is coming soon..
In 2015, my husband took his own life after battling bi-polar disease his entire adult life. I now have a semi-colon tattoo on my wedding ring finger to recognize his struggle. One day, a waitress noticed the tattoo and, in obvious recognition of its meaning, simply said, “I like your tattoo.” We smiled, in a comforting sisterhood.
I have multiple diagnoses. I’m bipolar, I have MS, I’ve had cancer 3 times and I’m an opiod addict. I’ve hit bottom several times. I’ve had two serious suicide attempts. The last one landed me in the psych ward getting ECTs for a month.
Finally approximately 18 months ago a wonderful man entered my life. He accepted all issues and loves me unconditionally. He has helped me find a way to diminish and control my monster. I’ll always battle the fire breathing dragon named depression; but, although in may try to chase me I’m no longer it’s bitch. I want to live, thrive and conquer this life.
Although this man has never known the darkness that tried to swallow me he and I are going to get matching semicolon tatts. My five daughters are also going to get one. The girls and I are going to have them put behind our left ear. He is putting it on his left wrist. The support and encouragement that my loved ones give me the strength and courage to accept that I’ve put the worst behind me. I’ve taken a pause and now it’s time to get on with my life. The semicolon tattoo is the perfect symbol for us.
I am getting mine on my wrist in my favorite color green on Friday, first tattoo. I am Bipolar with mixed, Deep Depression, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Fiber myalgia, shingles, Epstein Barr, Anxiety with chest pains. But I get up every day blessed that It could be worse.
I have been diagnosed BPD just about 1 month ago but I have been struggling with my mental health literally my whole life. My mum was schizophrenic and didn’t realise she was pregnant of me. I had a difficult birth and I was born with a few physical problems but in the hospital they took care of me till, when I was 40 days, my adoptive parents brought me home with them. My childhood and my teenage years have been very challenging. I have a past of abuse. Both my adoptive parents died of illness but I was able to keep fighting every day for a serene and satisfying life. I looked after my younger brother and moved to another country when he was 18. Funny enough, moving abroad has been one of the most painful and challenging events in my life. Maybe the loneliness we live in, just brought up old stuff and I had/have so much time to get lost in toughs, anxiety and moments of hopelessness.
Since my diagnosis, everything started making sense and now I feel hopeful as I know there is treatment and I will go through DBT. I am learning some coping strategies. I am scared, scared of not being able to control my emotions and to give sense to my existence because of my continuous changes in mood, believes, lifestyle.
I learned about the meaning of the semicolon tattoo and decided to draw it myself with semi permanent colour as I want to see how it feels before going for a permanent tattoo. The reminder is strong and visible and I want to be sure it will have just a positive effect on me. it is like shouting to the world that yes, I do struggle but I am a warrior, I survived many times and faced loads of difficulties and I can keep it up. I have enough strength to survive the moments I spiral down and out of control.
I will do my best to keep going and never forget that the sentence I am writing is still full of meaning and needs to be continued.
Much love to you all and let’s keep spreading the word, let’s combat the stigma. Full recovery is often possible with the right support.
You are all such strong people. We all suffer in one way or another. I for one am just trying to finish up High School and move on with my life. I have self harmed and gotten drunk. I have also smoked. I’m only 16 and my Junior year has been the roughest yet. I haven’t gotten any help for it. I’m trying to fight everything with the help and support of my friends. I have the semicolon on with a temporary one month tattoo my sister did tonight. I love you all and let’s continue to help and support each other.
I have suffered with depression for awhile now but not sure how to ask for help without being labeled as being crazy or psycho.
There is another side to this “project” Our daughter has decided to get this tattoo on her arm against the wishes and sensibilities of both myself and her Father. This is not to diminish the struggles people face with mental illness and depression. I have been there, I have been so sad, hurt and lonely that I could not get out of bed. I have experienced postpartum depression and abuse, I have been way to close to ending my life, I got professional help and fought my way back. this is not to deny or diminish my daughters story, I am proud that she too has fought her way back. I believe her and will continue to support her
2005 I survived myself and my PTSD. I would have missed so much. Not easy but mine and better than a period. Every day is still a struggle but I never know what wonder might be around the corner. Will be getting my tattoo soon.
Is there a place where people post pics of their tattoos?
Like others , I am in my 60’s and never considered a tattoo for myself until now.
I am contemplating making the comma into a yin/ yang or Pisces fish symbol as that is my sign.
It reminds me that after the dark comes the light.
By now, for me, that is the pattern of my life.
By now, for me, at the darkest moments what gives me hope to move through it,is the thought that I have done so many times before, and can make it again.
And my children.
And my dog !
Here: https://www.semicolontattoo.com/ideas/
Jesus loves you!
Praising Jesus for the strength you had to make it a ; and not a .
Posting this in honor of Julie!
I turned 18 three days ago, and since hearing about what these tattoos meant years ago, I always thought I should have one.
I’ve been dealing with depression and anxiety disorder for three years. It gets to the point of physically causing me pain now, and not in terms of self-mutilation. I can’t breathe, I find it hard to walk, I get massive headaches, and I’m always tired. I also get sick easily too, which sucks.
I’m getting one at the end of the year- when I finish high-school. If I can make it to my 18th birthday, even after years of self-harm and suicidal thoughts, then I can make it to November 19th- when I have my last exam. I’m getting one because it’s incentive, not to end it all. To stop hurting myself, to stop worrying that my girlfriend, and my family are all going to worry about me being emotionally stable enough to talk to them. I’m getting one for my aunt, and my cousin, and my best friends and my girlfriend- who, like me, have all dealt with severe mental illness and issues regarding self-mutilation for years.
I’m getting this tattoo to convince myself that I can stay strong.
My first tatoo. Feels expensive but will be worth it.
‘Don’t judge me for who I was ; but who I am now” with semi colon.
My family not doing this. Have been kicked out expect for brothers family. My sister died couple weeks ago. I was called to come. First time anyone spoke to me over 4 years. Terrifying for me to enter hostel situation. Had not seen my father since second week he was ill and not sure live or die. I had done nothing wrong. My parents don’ t believe mental health a disease. Was successful at my career. Had go on disability when diagnosed bipolar. Cycle through depressive cycles. Praying I can finally find forgiveness in my heart toward my family. I have spent hours talking with my doctor, friends where we live, read books, scriptures. Feeling my heart beginning to soften since sister’s death. Memorial service this Sunday. Please pray I allow God to help me continue find forgiveness. Our immediate family totals around 50. Sister first one God has called home to heaven. We all need prayers. Thank you any support you can give us. This is how found semi colon and pine cones and how important they are. Found right before this unexpected death. My prayers go out to all of you expressing yourself by using these 2 symbols of support.
Just got mine with Mickey Mouse ears …..
I AM ABOUT TO GET MY SEMI COLON TATTOO…IVE BEEN CLEAN 700 DAYS TODAY..NOW TRYING TO BEAT SEVERE DEPRESSION AND I HAVE APPOINTMENT FOR MENTAL HEALTH FIRST TIME EVER YES TRYING TO JOB HUNT,,,AND MY DOG IS MY WHOLE WORLD.I DONT HAVE ANY FAMILY OR SUPPORT SYSTEM
Depressed my entire life and always wearing the mask. I’ve recently started to face my issues after spending years working in the field and hiding in plain sight. I have several tattoos and I wanted one that really means something to me. I will be getting ; fight
The struggle is real and I will not submit!
; fight
I’m only 17 but I feel I have a lifetime of experience. Last year, I lost my dad after an 8 month battle with stage 4 cancer. He was the dad that wanted to be everyone’s best friend and I love and miss him everyday. Since his passing, I have been diagnosed with depression, PTSD, and insomnia. That was a few months after he died and I went to grief therapy. I had to stop going because all I did was talk and relive those heartbreaking events from those eight months. Watching someone you love give up the fight to live because of an illness that is taking over their body is a nightmare to watch let alone live.
I’m currently finishing up my senior year of high school. Many people have asked me if I’ll miss high school. I won’t. I’ll miss maybe 5 people and my choir class and thats it. I don’t want to look back on these past four years and have this roller coaster as my memories.
I decided once I turn 18, I’m going to get a semicolon tattoo. I have thought about self harm but I knew once I did that I would never get back on track. I would have panic attacks daily and have my PTSD trigger which has my depression following right behind it. I would plaster on this fake smile and pretend to be ok. I know now that its alright to show emotion. So I want the tattoo as a reminder that it is ok to let people in and ask for help. I might get the words “my story is just beginning” as well but thats still debateable. But, in the end I’m glad I am getting this because it provides self reassurance as well as bringing up questions and i can tell my story.
I’ve suffered clinical depression and suicidal thoughts since adolescence. I recently quit drinking after 20 years as an alcoholic, I’m seeing a therapist, and I take three different ADs to stay on top of the depression. Even with all of that, I still have bad days where I physically can’t get out of bed. I got a tattoo on my wrist that says “Live;” to remind myself to keep going, both for my family and myself.
I am a 62 year old woman who has never once considered getting a tattoo. Many many years ago, I suffered a bout of depression and attempted suicide. Luckily that was a one time issue. About 3 years ago, my only son ( a United States Marine), was diagnosed with PTSD and. TBI due to combat. He has attempted suicide multiple times. His last attempt, (last week), was very nearly successful. I am going to get the semi colon tattoo to honor him and raise awareness. It is not shameful, he is a hero. I will wear it proudly and hope it might give hope to him and others like him!
not sure my story more touching than most other people, but i’ve learned today i have lost someone dear to me whom has been living a ; life since birth.. ;
also lost my mom to cancer, but she has been trying so hard to give us a normal life, whilst she was struggling with her desmond, my brothers ; ended with a .
myself; faith, love from family kept me going ..
My wife and I are getting our semicolon tattoos together; she’s the survivor and I’m her sole caregiver.
Both tattoos incorporate a semicolon with a dragon. Her dragon is reading a book with a semicolon on the cover, whereas mine is reclining against a cliff wall, having just enjoyed a good meal of brave knight whose shield bears a semicolon.
Wish I could post pictures…
Got my semicolon tattoo on my wrist…designed it myself…..:)
This is symbol and reminder that I overcome something which at one point of of I thought will end me. I stayed…fought…and won.
I have this on my left wrist. Keep in there everyone
I got mine on the 7th of January for my mother… she and I have similar ones and mine will be added to in the future as a reminder that my mother is and always will be my everything. I am so proud to say it is my first tattoo. And I do not and will not regret it.
I tried drowning last week. I am getting help from these 2 siblings, they’re the only ones to know about my self-diagnosed depression. I got in a fight with one of them once, and if that never happened then I never would’ve gotten the courage to speak up to them! Recently they told me I need to tell my parents, and I made the promise to. Haven’t done it yet, but I’ll try.
Occasionally, I draw a semi-colon on my wrist to show I can stay strong (too young for a tattoo).
I get mine tomorrow. A constant reminder that I can do this.
I got my semicolon tattoo this month and I love it. Everytime I look at it…I am reminded of the struggles ive been through and the life ahead of me. Thank you for starting this wonderful movement.
Just got mine last night…….sooooo happy!!!!!!!
Depression runs in my family. I have lost friends to suicide and have tried in a way myself. I had my semicolon tattoo put on the back of my hand at the base of my thumb. It just so happened that it is over one of the self inflicted cigarette burns that I inflicted to myself years ago. I am over the suicide part and keep struggling to maintain that. To all of you out there. I came up with this saying years ago. Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem. Stay strong and seek out a friend…..we are all out there and will help you through your pain.
Andrea Joy Phoenix … thank you for sharing and for your beautiful explanation of the heart. I had tears in my eyes reading your comments.
I have PNES and I don’t have a tattoo of the semi colon yet. But I hope to one day. I hope to get the period in a teal color and the comma in a purple color. Because those are the colors to stand for PNES. “Mental illness” & epilepsy. Throughout my life I’ve been depressed due to emotional abuse. PNES is caused by stress, anxiety, and depression. It is a seizure disorder that non many people know about. But it’s real- just like the side affects that come along with it. But I hope all of you and many others can stay positive in life. We are here for a reason whether you believe it or not.
such an encouraging and inspirational statement generated from such a small punctuation
I learned of it browsing the internet for a new tattoo, I thought “I want that”. A couple weeks later I had it put on the top of my hand just above the wrist bone and I love it. I have battled with depression, drugs, alcohol, hurting myself, and attempted suicide. I still have some bad days but I survive. I am happy to explain what my semi colon tattoo means, not just for me but for all who have and still suffer.
This is such an inspiring story, I suffer from depression and although I don’t believe I could ever commit suicide, I do think about and have those feelings. I will be getting one on my wrist for people to see and ask about. This story has changed a lot of feelings and the way I think about things. Thank you for your story and everyone who has made a comment here.
Thank you! Recently dual diagnosed PTSD/SUD accompanied by mild bi polar and depression. American veteran who had no idea why he was broken fir 27 years
Stars and stripes semi colon or camouflaged?
Thank you for sharing your story. I too have suffered from severe depression and anxiety most of my life.I am now 58 and I am so tired of pretending, putting on the brave face, the fake smile, just to make other people happy. I feel no joy or happiness and have lost interest in everything. I do not go out of the house unless it is absolutely necessary. It’s exhausting to wash my hair, put on makeup and get dressed. It all seems overwhelming! If it were not for my beloved dog I would not be here now. I do not want to leave her alone and fear where she could end up.
I have tried numerous medications and therapy over the years but nothing has helped.I have entertained the thought of suicide countless times. It sounds like “sweet relief.” However, stories like yours, others and my dog keep me fighting when all I really want is to end the struggle and go away. I could finally rest!
I am going to get the semicolon tattoo as a daily reminder to keep going even though I see and feel no reason to do so. I am numb and feel only sadness and pain.
My hope is that seeing my tattoo daily will remind me that I am not alone.
Thank you for listening.
My daughter & granddaughter both have the tattoo ; on their wrist to remind them of their battle with depression
I live w/ major depression, anxiety, Bipolar 2, and PTSD. I was diagnosed after I had 3 nervous breakdowns back to back in ’08. Prior to that I had been self medicating w/ alcohol for decades. Well, after the breakdowns I was a mess and attempted several serious suicides, was hospitalized 4 times, eventually went catatonic and underwent ECT (shock treatment). After that We found a psychiatrist and it took 37 medications before finding the right “cocktail”. I’ve been doing well now for the past 4 yr.s, with a few quirks still, but I’m working on them. I’m even working on a book about my life. I’m going to get my semicolon soon, I just haven’t decided where to put it. It means a lot to me. My Dr. even told me that I am the author of my own life, then I read about the Semi Colon Project saying the same thing and now I am writing about my life!!! The ultimate 3! I would also like to say that my brother took his own life at 19 and no one saw it coming, even it retrospect I can say there were no signs. But it changed me forever. I did go to drug rehab because of his death. So I guess there was kind of a silver lining. I still think of him a lot and it’s been over 30 yr.s. I will never put my family through that now. I am better now and I will continue to get better as time goes on. I have a lot of support and love. And soon I will have my sei colon to remind me.
After reading this article and the comments, I’m inspired to actuate a semi colon tattoo on my own wrist. I’ve attempted suicide myself too many times. I was diagnosed with depression after my first attempt (duh.) Medication and years of therapy followed. I’d read about the tattoos some time ago, but have hesitated having one inked on myself pretty much due to age. I mean, how many people get their first tat in their 60’s? My birthday’s coming up #65), so what better time than now to do something for myself?
Thank you for the opportunity to share my battle.
Once a vibrant career oriented single mom.always on the move. Two years ago i had a massive stroke i am now paralyzed on my left side in a wheel chair part time. Had to give up my car.Had to cut my hair off. My life is so incredibly different and its so hard to get used to and i dont want to get used to it. But its my life right now. I fall in and out of depression almost on a daily basis. But i fight and i will continue to fight. I dont believe god bought me this far to leave me like this. Im looking for a job right now and im going to turn my life around. Im still so full of life and im going to keep living. And i hope everyone out there fighting wins because the struggle is real.
Beauty and grace are won easily for some, for others the challenge is much greater.
Carry the love forward, you inspire me to do the same;
I think this awesome .. I have had a lot of issues with self harm, drug addiction and depression – I was suicidal for years and finally took the leap last Thanksgiving taking every pill in my stash and curling up in a sleeping back- I awoke in an ICU intubated several days later supposedly agitated that it didn’t work …. today I have been sober for 11 months, on just enough mess to keep me level and enjoy everyday – good and bad …. if I saw someone with this tattoo I would certainly feel connected to others who struggle
I’m gonna get on me too !!
Thanks
Andrea, your story is felt so deeply. We are in so much pain from the loss of our son at 48. A good friend shared her wrist semicolon tattoo at his funeral service just a few weeks ago. We pray this depression will be lifted from you permanently, God and His grace can do this for you. Seek and you will find, knock and He will answer….I am planning along with my family to share the semicolon project and help more awareness to mental health. You will be in our prayers everyday, stay strong and to your promise. You will have a beautiful life because you took the first step, you want it for yourself and those you love. Together we can make a difference! Hugs! Indianapolis, IN
I plan on getting one as soon as I decide where, I have had issues with
drugs, hurting myself and attempted suicides when I was younger
(teens and twenties). Now I battle with depression but I am working on
it by not being afraid to ask for help. I will not let it defy me! I have a faith
and honesty tattoo that I got for strength, the semicolon will be my next.
I have C-PTSD and have been struggling so much lately. I need something to lift me up. I have been looking into the semicolon project for a while now. Do you know of any place in Los Angeles that I can get the tattoo? I have very limited funds. It would be my first tattoo….looking forward
I just got a 1″ tall, Bi(sexual) Pride colored (magenta, purple, blue) semicolon at the bottom of my left bicep. After resisting the diagnoses of depression and bi polar disorder for years, I just recently started meds and am publicly and vocally owning my dis-ease. The tattoo is an open effort at starting a conversation. I am coming from much the same place as Chris, I want to be understood and will be as vocal and visible as I feel that I need to be in order to achieve this. The struggle with my sexuality in many ways mirrors the struggle for acceptance that those who suffer from mental health issues confront – shame and the ignorance of others. The fight is real. On both fronts. I will be as open, in-your-face, honest and real as I need to be. My life depends on it.
Getting mine done tomorrow. With Stay Strong; on my inner lower arm. I expect a lot of questions. All I can say is my story will continue. I feel so badly inside but I’m not succumbing to suicide. I once believed that was the answer for me. But I don’t want my family to be hurt or shamed by my selfish act. It’s been a rough couple of months but one day at a time, sometimes it’s minutes…I am trying to get through til it gets better. Everyone spread the word. Let people know it’s ok to have a mental illness. I’m bipolar. I’ve been called crazy and psycho instead of someone just giving me a hug.
I have struggled with BPD, major depression, episodes of self-mutilation and suicidal ideations for years; along the way, there have been at least a handful of failed attempts at suicide. Ten days ago, I had a larger-than-usual and slightly-altered semicolon tattooed in black on the inside of my left wrist. The upper “part” — for lack of a better word — is in the shape of a heart & about 3/4″ high/wide, and the lower part is slightly smaller. The raised, white-ish scar from my last suicide attempt crosses my wrist diagonally between them. ? Traditionally, the upper portion is round but I chose to make it a heart for three reasons: #1 — To keep urging myself to let go of my self-hatred & remind myself to love myself; #2 — To remind myself that I am not alone… there is help… there is hope; and #3 — To remember those I have loved & lost to suicide and remind myself of the unbearable pain and heartbreak I suffered when each of them took their lives… …as well as reminding myself that I promised my loved ones I never would subject them to that same heartache by ending my story too soon. It’s going to be very difficult keeping my promise, but I will because I still have many more chapters to write in the book that is the story of my life.
Do I want just the black wrist piece in a normal font. Or do I enlarge it and set my semicolon in colors on my heart or my shoulder? I want it seen and the meaning known.
I got one in honor of my uncle. It’s quite the topic of discussion. 😉
Myself, a daughter and 2 Granddaugters will all be getting the same tattoo; will be encouraging others in our family to do the same.
Thank you!!!