What does a semicolon tattoo mean: symbolism and everything you need to know

Tattoos are known to be quite a fun activity and an interesting way to express yourself, be it artistic, creative or any other possible meaning and way. However, tattoos are also known to be quite personal, intimate, as they usually signify someone's life experiences, things they've been through, people they've lost, and more.

In truth, most people only get tattoos if the ink really stands for something or honors something incredibly meaningful, personal, and unique to you. In this way, each tattoo (even with repeated symbols and designs) becomes personalized and unique.

So, speaking of highly personal and meaningful tattoos, we couldn't help but notice the increase in the semicolon tattoo design trend. You may have seen it yourself on social media.

Even famous people like Selena Gomez, Alisha Boe, and Tommy Dorfman (from the popular Netflix show 13 Reasons Why) have semicolon tattoos. If you're wondering what this tattoo means, don't worry, we've got you covered. In the following paragraphs, we will explain the symbolism of this tattoo, so let's get started!

What does a semicolon tattoo symbolize?

It's not what you think; A semicolon tattoo does not really signify a punctuation mark used to link independent clauses within a sentence or related ideas. However, the idea of ​​something that links ideas and sentences together is incredibly meaningful in the context of a semicolon tattoo. The semicolon just shows that there is something else in the sentence or text; the idea is not done even when the proposal.

How does this value translate into a semicolon tattoo? That's how!

Have you ever heard of the Comma and Semicolon Project? It is a non-profit organization entirely dedicated to raising and spreading awareness about mental illness, addictions, self-harm and suicide.

The project was created and launched in 2013 by Amy Blueell. She wanted to have a platform where she could inspire and support people who are experiencing depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, or those who have friends and family members going through the same.

The Semicolon Project is a social media movement that encourages people to get semicolon tattoos as a form of showing solidarity, personal struggles with depression and suicidal thoughts. A semicolon tattoo shows that the person is not alone in their struggle and that there is hope and support.

A semicolon tattoo should be done on the wrist. People usually take pictures of their tattoos, share them on social media and spread the word about the Project and what it symbolizes.

So what prompted Amy Blueell to start this project?

In 2003, Amy's father committed suicide after facing his own battle with mental illness. Blueelle unfortunately struggled with a serious mental illness and tragically committed suicide in 2017. Blueelle started the project to share love, support and solidarity, but unfortunately it wasn't enough for her; it seems like she couldn't find the love and help she needed.

However, the Project has helped thousands of people in their struggle with mental illness and continues to do so even today. Amy's idea still lives on, and although she is no longer with us, she still helps spread the word and save thousands of lives.

Pros and cons of a semicolon tattoo

Many people say that getting a tattoo is a great way to remind yourself on a daily basis that you have survived the trauma of mental illness and that you are doing well. It is believed that the tattoo is a constant motivation and a reminder that you have survived and that you do not have to be so hard on yourself all the time.

The meaning of the semicolon tattoo is fine; it shows that even when you think your life is coming to an end by adding a semicolon, it is actually only going on.

But there is another side to the history of the semicolon tattoo, and we think it's just as important to write about it and share it with our readers.

Unfortunately, there are people who thought that getting this tattoo would bring them peace, help others by sharing awareness and solidarity, and generally help them end mental illness and put a semicolon in their lives. However, even though the semicolon serves as a reminder that a person is fighting and surviving, many people think that a tattoo becomes a negative reminder once you start to feel better.

After the trauma of mental illness subsides or passes, what can be done about the tattoo? It no longer serves as a reminder of your battle and survival; it becomes sort of. The brand of your mental illness and the crisis period of your life.

While it may still seem inspiring to some people, many have stated that they removed the semicolon tattoo because they wanted to start a new part of their life with a clean slate; without any reminders of struggle and mental illness.

So, should you get a semicolon tattoo? — Final Thoughts

If you think this tattoo will help you and others deal with mental illness and help spread solidarity, support, and love, then by all means go for it. This is a small tattoo usually applied on the wrist. However, getting a permanent tattoo to try and solve such a big problem shouldn't be the goal. The goal is to work on yourself and feed your mind and body with love, support and positivity.

Again, if you need a daily reminder of this, then a semicolon tattoo can work great. But we advise and strongly recommend that you carefully weigh the pros and cons of this tattoo before you finally decide to get it. Just because it helps other people doesn't mean it will help you in the same way. Keep that in mind!