Local residents will have the opportunity to book a tattoo appointment and get a semicolon, to help raise awareness, reduce stigma and promote mental health.
The Canadian Mental Health Association of Weyburn has partnered with Under Your Skin and Detente Spa to offer a special first-come first-served tattoo event.
The tattoo event will be held on May 2, and will be one of the first local events to mark Mental Health Week in Weyburn.
Anyone who wishes to get the semicolon tattoo must book their appointment through the CMHA Weyburn office. The cost is $50. All proceeds will be donated to the CMHA Weyburn branch to support their mental health programs and initiatives.
There are only 38 spots guaranteed, so it is important to register early.
Clients will be able to choose their design from a selection of semicolon-themed designs. All potential clients must be 18 years or older.
The semicolon project is a global movement that is dedicated to presenting hope and love for those who are struggling with mental illness, or have dealt with suicide, addiction or self-injury.
Amy Bleuel started the nonprofit movement Project Semicolon in April 2013 to honor her father, who took his own life, and to give voice to her own fight with mental illness. The idea was to encourage anyone haunted by these demons to draw a semicolon on their body, photograph it, and share it on a given day to encourage love and to inspire.
Since its inception, Project Semicolon has transformed into a full-fledged movement and awareness campaign for mental health and suicide prevention.
The reason behind using a semicolon is in writing, it is used by an author who could have chosen to end their sentence, but had decided not to. Just as the mark is a sign for readers to pause before continuing on with a sentence, participants have embraced the symbol as a reminder that their story isn’t over yet — and that they should tell it.
For those residents who would like to get involved, but do not want a permanent tattoo, there is also an option for Henna Body Art for $5 or nail printing for $2 per nail. Once again, interested residents must contact the CMHA office to reserve their spot.
Further information on other Mental Health Week events for the Weyburn branch of the Canadian Mental Health Association will be released at a later date. Typically, the CMHA Weyburn branch hosts their Mayor’s Luncheon during this special week.
