Clinically reviewed by Kyle Cedermark, MD.
A semicolon, a Medusa portrait, a quote: As tattoos, they can all be powerful reminders of moving forward in life, reclaiming control, and finding the strength to overcome challenges. Body art can tell a powerful story of our journey, giving others an intimate and genuine glimpse into who we are, what we love, and where we’ve come from.
One in three Americans has at least one tattoo, with the most common motivation being to remember or honor an important aspect of their life. For many, it’s seen as a type of therapy, offering a helpful step for navigating grief, trauma, and other complicated feelings. Body art is more than just ink; it can be an integral part of sharing—and living—our story.
In this article, we explore the close relationship between mental health and body art, including the positive aspects for recovery and signs that someone may need additional support. Plus, we provide tips for parents and caregivers on how to approach the “tattoo talk” with teenagers.
The Special Significance of Tattooing in History
Tattooing isn’t a trend—it’s a practice with roots going back thousands of years. The word “tattoo” comes from the Tahitian “tatau,” meaning “to strike.” In Polynesian cultures, tattoos have long symbolized power, honor, and identity. Though missionaries banned the practice in the 1800s, it saw a cultural revival in the 1980s as a proud reclaiming of heritage.
The oldest known tattoos were found on Ötzi the Iceman, a 5,200-year-old mummy, with markings believed to offer therapeutic relief based on their placement around his joints and lower spine vs. a more prominent place that would reflect status. Therefore, the ink may have been used to try to alleviate pain or illness.
In ancient Egypt, tattoos on women, dating back to as far as 4000 BCE, sparked debate among archaeologists. The women were initially dismissed as having a lower “dubious status” due to the researchers’ biases on their abdominal and thigh ink, but newer perspectives suggest that their tattoos could actually have been symbols of status, protection, and spirituality.
Body ink isn’t always associated with a positive connection in society, such as Yakuza tattoos in Japan that can be related to gangs, or serial numbers forced upon Auschwitz prisoners—although the latter can often bear these marks as a testament to their survival and resilience. While it’s nearly impossible to cover every occurrence of tattooing in history, there’s one thing that can be agreed on: Tattoos tell stories of human existence.
In the United States, tattoos can evoke a mix of negative projections, such as being unprofessional in the workplace or engaging in risky behavior. Yet that perception is changing, and there’s now a greater understanding of how body art can provide emotional benefits. Whether someone proudly shows a memorial portrait of a loved one, or wears a depiction of an adorable animal that brightens their day, body art can be a way to move forward, giving a sense of solace that hadn’t seemed possible.
5 Ways Tattoos Can Be Related to Mental Health
Today, 8 in 10 Americans say society, in general, has become more accepting of people with tattoos, illustrating just how mainstream they are. Here we break down a few ways body art can be an impactful part of the mental health journey.
Tattoos tell stories.
A portrait of an adored dog who has passed. A bouquet of flowers drawn by family members. A decorative band around someone’s ring finger. Tattoos are an intimate way of outwardly sharing the things and people who mean the most to us. Pew Research Center found that 69 percent of people with tattoos have at least one that remembers or honors someone or something. Whether it’s a reminder of a positive time or a difficult memory, body art helps us keep pivotal parts of our journey at the forefront of our minds.
In particular, a memorial tattoo can play a significant role in the grieving process. Some people may get song lyrics, an EKG reading, or even ink infused with a loved one’s ashes to feel they are still with them, even if it’s not in a physical form. In addition, the design provides a conversation starter, giving them opportunities to share stories of their loved one and keep their memories alive.
Tattoos promote self-expression.
Body art, just like clothing or a hairstyle, is a form of expressing one’s beliefs, thoughts, or ideas. Almost half of people with tattoos say they got their ink to make a statement about what they believe in. This can play a huge role in living authentically, whether it’s expressing your sexual identity through a colored flag or showing solidarity with a community you belong to. It can help someone come into their own and connect with those around them.
Tattoos can help us express deeper feelings and a sense of belonging. People often get ink that represents someone they admire or shows their dedication to a fandom. Ellie, a strong, rough-around-the-edges character from the popular video game and now show, The Last of Us, is an excellent example. The fern and moth motif on her arm can be interpreted in many ways, and has become a popular design—as an empowering piece of body art for people who have scars, have overcome challenges, or relate to Ellie’s queer identity.
Tattoos support body positivity and self-acceptance.
Like your favorite pair of jeans that fit you just right and bring you confidence in your body, tattoos can do the same. Having beautiful art on your skin can be a source of autonomy, helping many people rekindle or discover a love for their bodies. Getting inked can be an essential part of a healing journey—giving the recipient permission to stop hiding and start feeling comfortable with who they are.
In the mental health space, it’s common to have guilt or shame associated with self-injury marks or scarring, especially as someone recovers and wants to move forward. Body art can cover or work with scars to help people forgive themselves and create something beautiful out of a dark experience.
Tattooing can also be gender affirming. Similar to 3-D nipple tattooing done for those who have undergone mastectomies for breast cancer, people who have top surgery (breast removal as part of a gender transition) have found nipple reconstruction to be an impactful aspect of becoming who they truly are. And there are tattoo artists, such as M Nijiya of Minneapolis, who dedicate their work to gender-affirming tattoos. Whether they’re designing a nipple reconstruction or an ornate piece to highlight a client’s top surgery scars, Nijiya and other artists have a vital role in the affirmation journey.
Jesi Pick (they/them) who received nipple tattoos after top surgery, shared with The Minnesota Star Tribune just how liberating it can be: “Immediately after getting the tattoo, it all just looked like it should be—like it always should be,” they said. “It brought me so much peace.”
Tattoos help to heal from trauma.
Trauma responses are complex, and can create a feeling of disconnection from one’s body. In these cases, the tattooing process can be a physical act of reclaiming the body, inherently telling the mind that what happens to them doesn’t have to be out of their control.
For people who have been victims of sexual assault, body art can be a “non-traditional form of healing,” as described in one study of tattoos in relation to recovery from sexual trauma.The researchers found that many survivors seek out tattoos as a form of “regaining control of their bodies and their environment.” Although people who experience trauma should always get professional mental health support, body art can be one piece of the puzzle in recovering and healing.
Plus, there’s an emergence of artists in the industry who are taking a trauma-informed approach to tattooing, promoting safe spaces through consent, empathy, and understanding of clients’ diverse backgrounds and experiences. An integral part of this process involves checking in with clients to assist with the physical and emotional pain that may emerge as someone alters their body. Furthermore, there are tattoo shops that provide private spaces, have only women or queer artists, or maintain other guidelines aiming to provide an inclusive, welcoming space for tattoo seekers.
Tattoos provide important reminders.
Often, meaningful tattoos are inked on prominent parts of the body, so the recipient can reflect on and remember themes vital to their well-being or story. Whether it’s a reminder to breathe or a postage stamp of a meaningful family trip, body art can play a role in reminding us of what is important to us and our journey so far.
One powerful example of an ink reminder is Project Semicolon. Focused on mental health advocacy and suicide prevention, the semicolon has become a universal symbol of hope and perseverance, boldly reminding others and themselves, “My story is not over.” In a recent survey, researchers found that the symbolic action of getting a semicolon tattoo creates an internal shift, marking one’s survival and a new chapter in life.
One survey participant shared this sentiment clearly: “It felt like reclaiming my life. Like saying, ‘I survived—and I choose to keep going.”
Why Some People View Tattoos as Therapy
It’s common to hear the phrase, “Tattoos are my therapy,” from someone who is into body art. As we’ve seen, ink can be a therapeutic part of living authentically and overcoming challenges. In addition, tattooing is a very intimate and time-consuming process. The relationship that develops between an artist and a client can be deeply rooted in trust as they share personal stories, experience pain alongside them, and communicate frequently throughout the process.
Remember, tattooing can never replace the support of a mental health professional. A therapist can give you a space to explore how you feel, provide helpful coping skills, and help you reach goals that are important to your life. If you or a loved one is struggling, reach out to a primary care provider or a local psychiatric care organization for a screening that helps you determine what kind of support may be needed.
Tattoos and Self-Harm: What’s the Difference?
In the context of mental health, tattoos can sometimes blur the line between what’s healthy and what may indicate a concerning behavior. Since body art causes some pain and trauma to the skin, it may seem like a form of self-harm, and some studies indicate a possible overlap. But context is everything when determining the difference between tattoos and self-harm.
Self-injury is the act of inflicting pain on oneself to bring a temporary sense of calm in reaction to extreme emotional distress. It can be a form of avoidant coping, such as a distraction or a way to feel a sense of control. Self-harm is an unhealthy coping mechanism that can lead to guilt, infections, and a higher risk of suicide.
On the other hand, getting a tattoo is usually motivated by a positive intention and deliberate decision in collaboration with a professional artist.From the perspective of Kyle Cedermark, MD, it would be exceedingly rare for a tattoo to be completely self-injurious. But a self-administered stick-and-poke tattoo at home, without professional equipment, for example, may have different intentions.
Because everything we do, even unconsciously, carries multiple meanings, it’s important to keep an open mind when it comes to others’ tattoos. Some content and placement of body art, such as on the face, can seem alarming or off-putting at first. But if you inquire about what they’re expressing through the ink, you may end up shifting your perspective.
If you’re considering getting a new tattoo and have some complicated feelings or need some direction, talk it through with someone you trust. Whether it’s a friend, parent, or even your therapist, they can offer an additional perspective to help you make intentional choices about body art.
Are Tattoos Addictive?
Right after receiving a tattoo, you may already feel motivated or excited to get your next piece. What causes this feeling? The body responds to the tattooing process by releasing endorphins as a mechanism to manage the pain. After all, a tattoo is considered trauma to the skin, and the body reacts accordingly. So, it’s pretty common for people to get an “endorphin high” that boosts their mood, which may become an addictive factor for some people.
Although tattoo addiction is not a clinical diagnosis, it should be taken seriously if it accompanies other reckless behavior, such as preoccupation with body art, emotional dependence, financial strain, and other signs that mimic addictions. And for people with depression, anxiety, and other mental health challenges, it’s possible for tattoos to become an unhealthy coping mechanism, providing temporary relief and distraction.
Like any activity, when tattooing is done in excess, it’s a red flag that someone may be struggling. No matter what, if you suspect someone you care about is using unhealthy coping strategies, check in with them to see how they’re doing. Having a conversation with a loved one can provide the incentive they need to get professional support.
How to Navigate the Tattoo Talk with a Teen
The teen years are all about self-exploration and finding one’s identity and values. While tattooing a person under age 18 is illegal in some states, other states allow it with parental permission. As a result, tattoos are becoming increasingly popular among teens, and the Pew Research Center reports that 38 percent of 18- to 29-year-olds have at least one tattoo. One study found that over 50 percent of high school students have expressed a desire for a tattoo, and another report found that nearly one-quarter of 16– to 18-year-old teens have asked their parents for permission.
The teen brain is not fully developed, which makes teens more impulsive. So, getting permanent body modification like a tattoo at an early age can lead to regrets over time. What can parents do when a teen comes to them about getting a tattoo? We break it down in a few steps:
- Validate their interest. Immediately saying no will shut down a conversation and could cause frustration. Instead of making an immediate decision, take the time to slow down the process and talk with them about it.
- Have an open-minded conversation about what they want. Although you may have already made up your mind about how you feel about your teen getting a tattoo, hearing why they want to get it can open a window into their world. Listen closely and ask questions that show your interest. Why do they want a tattoo? What does it mean to them? Because tattoos can be deeply personal, the conversation can help you gather valuable information for navigating next steps.
- Help them explore other forms of self-expression. They might want to try a different haircut or color, try new ways of dressing or using makeup, or create art that shows how they feel. Another way to support teens is by connecting them with clubs or community events focused on topics they’re passionate about.
- Share health-related information and considerations. Informing teens of the health and aesthetic concerns that come with tattooing can support their decision-making process. For example, body art may change as they age because the skin stretches, possibly altering the design in the future. They should also know how important it is for them to take care of the tattoo as it heals to avoid infection.
- Support them in being safe. If you are comfortable moving forward with a tattoo, it’s vital to research a safe and talented artist. Many artists offer consultations prior to completing the design, which can help you feel more comfortable based on their ability, the process itself, and pricing.
The most important thing is to be there for your child as a source of unconditional support. The teenage years are tough enough already, so offering a safe, loving space, rather than judgment, will help them make healthy, well-informed decisions.
Whole-Person Mental Health Support in Minnesota
At PrairieCare, we provide mental health support with a whole-person approach. What that means is that we see each patient as a unique individual who should be acknowledged and celebrated. Whether or not you have tattoos, you have a story, and we want to hear it.
During the first phone call, our team learns about you or your loved one to determine what mental health program will best fit your needs. We create a path to healing, so our patients can take control of their life with a greater well-being, thrive in relationships, and reach milestones they are passionate about. With our full continuum of care for all ages throughout the Twin Cities, Mankato, and Rochester, there’s no need to wait to get mental health support.
To get started, you can call our team at 952-826-8475 to answer any questions, access a no-cost mental health screening, and minimize barriers to getting care. You can also request a screening by clicking the button below and filling out the form on the right. Our team will then contact you within one business day to get started. We feel honored to be part of your story and look forward to supporting you each step of the way.
