The above image shows a form of self-stigmatization: the semicolon tattoo. The semicolon tattoo symbolizes solidarity with those who struggle with mental health and tries to make mental health issues more visible. When people choose to mark themselves with this, it has personal and social implications. Socially, the “bearers” of the tattoo want to give people hope who struggle with mental health and increase awareness and visibility of those who suffer from mental illness. Because mental illness is not often something you can see, many people forget it’s there or feel isolated when they do struggle with mental health. These tattoos increase the visibility of mental health and create a sense of community for anyone who has dealt with mental illness. On a personal level, the tattoo may help the bearer come to terms with their mental health or feel peace about loved ones they have lost to mental illness. While the semicolon is a great manifestation of this awareness and catharsis for the mentally ill, there are also risks of choosing to self-stigmatize. When people see the semicolon , they may begin to feel uncomfortable around the bearer or ask them invasive questions about their mental health. Another possibility is people will have stereotypes associated with mental illness, worry that the bearer is unstable and treat them differently. While there are risks associated with self-stigmatization, the semicolon still has personal and social functions and increases visibility for mental health issues.
Thinking Rhetorically at GCSU 