Depression affects more than 300 million people worldwide — so why aren’t we talking about it more? Many people get tattoos to help themselves cope with and spread awareness about depression, along with other mental health conditions.
We asked our community to share some of their tattoos and stories with us — check them out below.
If you'd like to share the story behind your depression tattoo, email us at nominations@healthline.com. Be sure to include: a photo of your tattoo, a short description of why you got it or why you love it, and your name.
“This tattoo is for my depression. The owl lives in the darkness, so I must learn how to as well. The key, lock, and heart represent that the answer to unlocking the mystery and magic that we hold within ourselves [resides inside each of us].” — Anonymous
“[My tattoo] was inspired by a Buddhist symbol of an Unalome. The spiral represents chaos, the loops, the twists, and the turns [represent] life, [and] all lead to harmony. I live with bipolar disorder and every day is a struggle. I needed a reminder that harmony is possible, to keep fighting.” — Liz
“I have had self-esteem issues for most of my life. I have survived many of life’s challenges, and I got this to remind myself that I’m stronger than I think I am.” — Anonymous
“I’ve had PTSD, major depression, and anxiety since I was 12. I was bullied so much and was abused by my father. This tattoo is of lyrics from one of my favorite bands, My Chemical Romance’s [song], “Famous Last Words.” I had it over my self-harm scars so if I ever feel the urge to cut again, I can look down and see this.” — Anonymous
“I got this about a year after my suicide attempt. It says ‘alive.’ The ‘l’ is an awareness ribbon that is yellow [to represent] suicide awareness. I also have heartbeats on both sides.” — Anonymous