What is World Semicolon Day?

World Semicolon Day is observed annually on April 16 to raise awareness about mental health, particularly focusing on suicide prevention and support for those struggling with mental illness, addiction, and self-injury. The semicolon symbol represents a pause in a sentence, chosen by writers when they could have ended the sentence but decided to continue. In the same way, the semicolon has been adopted as a symbol of hope, reminding individuals that their story is not over.

The day is part of a global movement to encourage open conversations about mental health, break the stigma surrounding mental illness, and provide support for those in need. Many people mark the occasion by sharing their stories, raising awareness, and even getting semicolon tattoos as a personal reminder of their resilience.

History and origin

World Semicolon Day is closely linked to Project Semicolon, a nonprofit organization founded in 2013 by Amy Bleuel. She created the movement in memory of her father, who died by suicide in 2003, and to support others facing similar struggles. The semicolon was chosen as a symbol to represent the decision to continue living despite hardships.

Project Semicolon is dedicated to offering hope and love to those struggling with mental illness, addiction, and self-harm. It quickly grew into an international movement, with people around the world using the semicolon as a visible sign of solidarity and strength. World Semicolon Day was first observed in 2016 and has since become a global event where individuals and organizations come together to promote mental health awareness and suicide prevention.

Who participates in World Semicolon Day?

• individuals who have faced mental health challenges and want to share their stories or support others
• mental health advocates and organizations that promote awareness and provide resources for those in need
• artists and tattoo studios that offer semicolon tattoos to spread awareness and support mental health initiatives
• friends, family members, and allies who participate in events and social media campaigns to show solidarity
• educators and workplaces that host discussions and promote mental health-friendly environments

Slogans and themes

World Semicolon Day focuses on themes of hope, resilience, and mental health awareness. Common messages include “your story isn’t over,” “choose to continue,” and “stay strong.” These slogans reinforce the idea that even in difficult times, there is always a path forward.

Each year, the day encourages conversations about mental health, suicide prevention, and the importance of seeking help. The themes emphasize breaking the stigma, supporting one another, and reminding people that they are not alone.

Colors, symbols, and patterns

Colors

• Blue represents mental health awareness and healing
• Black symbolizes solidarity and strength in the face of mental health struggles
• Pink signifies hope, remembrance, and support for suicide prevention

Symbols

• the semicolon is the primary symbol, representing a choice to continue life rather than end it
• a butterfly is sometimes used alongside the semicolon to symbolize transformation and hope
• a heart reflects love, support, and the importance of emotional well-being

Patterns

• minimalist designs feature simple semicolon tattoos or drawings, often placed on the wrist
• handwritten or typewriter fonts are common, reflecting the literary origins of the semicolon symbol
• lifeline patterns or heartbeat lines are used to incorporate the semicolon into a design representing survival and perseverance

How to observe World Semicolon Day

• share your story with others to inspire hope and break the stigma around mental health
• get a semicolon tattoo or draw a semicolon on your wrist as a reminder of resilience
• donate to mental health organizations that provide support, education, and crisis intervention
• attend or organize mental health awareness events to foster open conversations
• use social media to spread awareness, post resources, and show support for those struggling

Most used hashtags

• worldsemicolonday
• projectsemicolon
• yourstoryisntover
• mentalhealthawareness
• staystrong

Why is World Semicolon Day important?

World Semicolon Day plays a vital role in raising awareness about mental health and suicide prevention. The day encourages people to speak openly about their experiences, providing support to those who may feel alone in their struggles.

By sharing stories and displaying the semicolon symbol, individuals and communities help reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness and encourage those in need to seek help. The day also serves as a reminder that no one is alone and that everyone has the strength to continue their story.