Mental health tattoos have become a hot topic on TikTok, with ‘medusa tattoo’ gaining over 22.8 million views and counting. But before you ask, it has nothing to do with an uptick in interest for Greek mythology. Medusa is considered a symbol of survival among women who have suffered 𝓈ℯ𝓍ual assault, and it’s fair to say the designs are both breath-taking and powerful, as are many mental health tattoos.

Sometimes, a tattoo is just a pretty piece of art the wearer felt drawn to in the tattoo parlour – an aesthetically-pleasing design that complements their existing inks. But ask a person the meaning behind their tattoo and, more often than not, they’ll reveal an emotional story behind it.

Celebrity tattoo artist Claudio Traina at Sixty Ink Tattoo explains that even the process of getting a tattoo can be therapeutic. “Getting tattooed is similar to a therapy session – people trust us with their skin,” he tells Glamour. “Touching a person creates a connection – people get vulnerable and they open up to us.”

Tattoo artist Abigail Rawlings of Abigail Louise Tattoos explains how she does a lot of scar cover ups on arms and thighs for people who have self-harmed in the past. “My clients say they find it therapeutic and that it’s almost like closing that chapter of their life. I think it’s really powerful and I’m grateful that they trust me and are comfortable sharing that part of their journey with me.”

Traina echoes this: “We can cover traumatic memories with an amazing design that helps to distract the eyes away from it, or in some cases, highlight and pay homage to it.”

He goes on to tell us that while some people choose these tattoos to make a bold statement, wearing their heart on their sleeve (quite literally), others opt for more discreet designs. “You may have no idea there is a connection to mental health unless you asked.”

It’s not exactly a new trend. For years people have been getting inked to remind themselves how far they’ve come in life, and the mantras they must adopt in order to continue moving forward. Traina has tattooed the likes of Demi Lovato and James Arthur, both of whom have been open and honest about their mental health battles in the past. While he guards all of his clients’ privacy, he adds that he “loved the connection I had with these clients.”

Traina lists positive affirmations such as ‘love’, ‘self-love’ and ‘breathe’ as popular tattoos for people wanting to mark a milestone in their mental health journey. “Lots of people tattoo a lion face to be braver, or animals they are scared of, like snakes and spiders, to remind them to face their fears. People might also feel a connection to their ‘spirit animal’ and have it tattooed for guidance and strength.”

Traina adds that if you’re not sure about the tattoo you’ve chosen, it’s best to keep the stencil on and go home and sleep on it. “If you’re still not sure the day after then it’s probably not the right time to get the tattoo.”

Whether you’re looking to add to your collection, or you’re an ink virgin looking for inspiration, we’ve found the most stunning mental-health themed designs to add to your maybe list…

• Instagram/ @bunnystattoosFingers Crossed TattooWe cross our fingers when we want something to happen. A crossed-finger tattoo is popular as it reminds the wearer to always live with hope.
• Instagram/ @joannamromanSemi Colon TattooWhy has the semi colon tattoo become the symbol for mental health? In literature, it signifies that the author chose not to end the sentence. In life, it shows that the wearer chose not to end their life.
• Instagram/ @kaylinlynettCat Semi Colon TattooSemi colon tattoos often merge with other common mental health symbols, such as flowers and butterflies. People often personalise them to include the thing that got them through their worst moments, such as their pet.
• Instagram/ @claudio_trainaFalling Man TattooCelebrity tattoo artist Traina captioned this design: “If life knocks you down, try to land on your back. Because if you can look up, you can get up. And if you get up, you can stand up. And if you stand up, you can fight for your dream once again. You have something special. You have GREATNESS within you!” Wow.

• Instagram/ @abigaillouisetattooLotus Flower TattooThe lotus flower has always been used as a symbol of spirituality, but did you know it grows in muddy water without staining? The perfect symbol for rising up through challenges.
• Instagram/ @tantaitattooerMedusa TattooShe was a monstrous Gorgon in Greek mythology, with snakes for hair and a gaze that could turn you to stone. Now, she is a modern-day symbol of strength and survival for 𝓈ℯ𝓍ual assault victims.
• Instagram/ @backtobasicstattooMessy Mind TattooFor those who have experienced spiralling thoughts or the brain fog that comes with anxiety, this tattoo needs no explanation. It’s also a stunning design, proving that there is beauty in an “imperfect” mind.
• Instagram/ @nihansugundoganWater and Wave TattoosLife, like waves, is constantly changing and moving. The key is to find peace in this constant change, as this beautiful water-inspired design suggests. There’s no denying the calming quality of water – just looking at it, even in a basic illustration, can bring about a sense of tranquility and inner peace.

• Instagram/ @inkby_gabrielBreathe TattooBreathing properly is often the first thing we forget to do in times of acute stress – it’s why practices like meditation and yoga are so beneficial for our mental health. Write a memo on your arm so you never forget. And… breathe.
• Instagram/ @pollivkt.tattooNo Rain, No Flowers TattooNo one really loves rain, do they? But this popular quote is a reminder that it is required for nature to bloom. After a spell of darkness, there is always new life.
• Instagram/ @kovin.tattooSeratonin TattooSerotonin is the neurotransmitter thought regulate mood and reduce anxiety. By inking the chemical formula on their skin, people are reminding themselves to stay calm and in control.
• Instagram/ @badmojo_gdanskMoth TattooWhat do moths do? They find the light. It’s a reminder to always have hope in the dark times.

• Instagram/ @ami.tatsBe Still TattooWe live in a frenetic world that can feel tricky to keep up with and at times, overwhelming. These two simple words say it all: take a beat and don’t allow yourself to spiral into anxiety.
• Instagram/ @palette.ttButterfly Tattoo“The butterfly represents transformation and growth, reminding us that even though our struggles with mental health may seem overwhelming, we have the power to overcome them and transform,” tattoo artist @miggi.ink tells his followers. He goes onto explain how it also represents the beauty of fragility, reminding us to take care of ourselves and seek help if needed.