Depression affects more than
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
