6 Bipolar Tattoos That Tell Your Story
Mental health tattoos have become a trending topic on TikTok, and with celebrities. Demi Lovato, who has been open about their struggle with bipolar disorder, has over 20 tattoos, some of which have a connection to bipolar disorder.
A tattoo may look like nothing more than a pretty piece of art. But tattoos tell stories. Just ask a person the meaning behind their tattoo, and, more often than not, they’ll reveal an emotional story behind it.
Many people find it therapeutic to get a tattoo. Tattoos can be a cathartic way to deal with mental illness. That is because tattoos tell a story of where you have been. More importantly, the scripts written on them represent a reminder — of where you want to go. They can inspire you to keep going when you feel like giving up.
What Tattoo Symbolizes Bipolar?
There is no specific tattoo that symbolizes bipolar disorder. You can choose the design that suits you best. Some are bold. Others are more discreet. A person would never know there is a connection to mental health unless they asked.
Want some ideas? Here are some beautiful mental health tattoos to wear with pride.
#1 Lithium
Lithium is a mood stabilising medicine commonly used to treat bipolar disorder. Many people credit it with saving their lives! That’s because it has been found to reduce suicide risk significantly in some people taking it. A lithium tattoo is more than just a reference to medication—it’s a personal symbol of stability, survival, and reclaiming control over one’s life. It’s about resilience.
Whether it’s a simple Li symbol, the chemical structure of lithium, or a more abstract interpretation, this tattoo can carry deep, personal meaning. Here’s a very creative example of a lithium tattoo from @living.on.bipolar.spectrum on Instagram.
Related: The Best Mood Stabilizers for Bipolar Disorder?
#2 Sun and Moon
Bipolar disorder is an illness of extreme mood shifts. Mania that feels euphoric. Lows that can be isolating and dark. The sun-and-moon tattoo symbolizes this contrast between moods. The sun represents mania. The moon reflects sadness and stillness. As shown in this Instagram post by @artworkbyg, together they create a balanced visual.
#3 Messy Mind
If you live with bipolar disorder, you know what it’s like to have a “messy mind” — racing thoughts, brain fog, and disorganized thinking. This tattoo captures that chaotic experience in a way that’s both beautiful and honest. The “mess” isn’t a flaw; it’s part of your story.
Tattoo by @inkspatattoo on Instagram
#4 Semi-Colon
Many people with bipolar disorder struggle with suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Up to 60 percent of people with bipolar disorder attempt suicide at least once. As many as 19 percent will complete suicide.
The semicolon tattoo has become synonymous with suicide prevention. The semicolon is often used in sentences to indicate that it has not yet ended. The symbolism in a semicolon tattoo is profound, as it indicates your life is not yet over. It's a beautiful, powerful reminder of your strength to forge ahead in the darkest of nights.
#5 Self-Harm Cover Up
Self-harm is one of the most difficult mental health struggles to deal with. It is also very hard to talk about, especially as the scars left behind after years of self-harm can be painful reminders of your past. Self-harm tattoos help cover up those scars. It’s not about hiding the scars. It’s more about reclaiming your body. Here’s an example of a great tattoo from TikTok user @tbktattoosbykieran.
Related: Should I Talk to My Therapist About Suicidal Thoughts?
#6 Quotes That Tell It Like It Is
Forget overused phrases like “Just Breathe” or “Stay Strong.” For most people diagnosed with bipolar disorder, these sayings feel disconnected from the complicated emotions that come with living with a mood disorder. Instead, consider phrases like:
“Mania lied.” This simple phrase acknowledges how distorted your thoughts can be during mania.
“Healing is not a straight line.” When it comes to a mood disorder, progress often includes setbacks.
A Final Word: This Is Your Ink
Living with bipolar disorder means dealing with difficult things. You’ve been through mania that doesn’t let you sleep for days, and euphoria that tells you that you can do anything in the world. Getting a bipolar tattoo is about speaking to what you have been through — what you have survived.
