What is my Tattoo?
You see that tattoo on my arm? The one that looks unfinished, half-done, or plain ugly? Yes, that one. It’s not a scar but a sign of my resilience—a symbol of strength, a reminder to keep moving forward, and to believe that life can look better each day. That’s the tattoo I wear proudly.
If you see me around and notice the tattoo, it’s an invitation—you can ask me about it, or talk to me. For me, showing it is the strongest I have ever been. It means I can share my story without having to force out the words “suicide” or “death,” which still get stuck in my throat every time.
Why this Tattoo?
What is this elusive tattoo, you may ask? It isn’t a metaphor or an exaggeration. It is, in fact, a tattoo I painstakingly had needled into my skin—a stark reminder of how far I’ve come.
It’s tiny, as the artist described when sketching it onto me. Barely more than a centimetre wide or long, yet powerful. It stands out, sharp and unmissable. It’s a semicolon.
The idea for this tattoo comes from research and from countless people who, like me, have battled suicidal thoughts often without professional help. I’ve seen many carry the same symbol—across the globe, on different parts of their bodies. Some keep it hidden. Others wear it in plain sight.
The semicolon signifies continuity, the unfinished, the yet-to-come. It says: My story isn’t over. It isn’t a full stop. It isn’t the end. It means, to be continued…
Continuity
Does this mean my life has ended? No. But I have wished it would. I have wished my suicidal ideation could have disappeared with the prick of the needle on my arm—but it doesn’t work that way.
This symbol of power, hope, and resilience is also a reminder that I still have a life ahead of me. A life filled with possibilities.
Every day is a struggle, but I am resilient—and so are you. Life goes on.
If reading this has triggered something in you, please reach out for help. And if you see me on the street and notice the tattoo, don’t hesitate to come say hi. I’m nice, I promise.
To be continued…
Bio- Vaishali Ramesh is a mental health advocate, researcher, and clinician, with experience in child protection, suicide prevention, and forensic psychology. She is passionate about developing culturally sensitive approaches to well-being, blending research, practice, and community engagement. When she’s not deep in data analysis or risk assessments, she’s probably giving serious thought to whether her plants are thriving—or just plotting their slow revenge.