In 2013, a woman named Amy Bleuel started a movement called Project Semicolon. Inspired by her own painful experiences, including the loss of her father to suicide, Amy wanted to create a symbol that could give strength to people facing similar struggles. She chose the semicolon to represent a choice, even when life feels unbearable, a person can still choose 'not to stop'.
In interviews, Amy explained that a semicolon symbolizes a moment where a writer could end a sentence but chooses to continue it. The same goes for life even when someone feels close to breaking, they still have the 'power to keep going and write a new chapter'.
The movement quickly spread, becoming an international symbol for mental health awareness. Many people began tattooing semicolons on their bodies, such as on their wrists, behind their ears, or other places as a reminder that they’ve chosen not to give up. For some, this symbol also honors loved ones who lost their battles with mental illness.
In psychology, the semicolon represents resilience. Some key lessons from this symbol include:
1. The Choice to Keep Going
The semicolon teaches us that life doesn’t have to end at its lowest point. Everyone has the right to keep going, even when the path is full of obstacles.
2. A Pause, Not an End
Just like in grammar, a semicolon doesn’t mean the sentence is over, it’s a pause before the story continues. In life, this could mean taking time to heal, seeking professional help, or simply resting before rising again.
3. Solidarity and Support
People who wear the semicolon often share similar struggles. This creates a sense of community, reminding everyone that no one is truly alone in their journey.
Though the movement originally focused on mental health struggles, its message applies to many challenges in life. Everyone faces failure, loss, or moments of despair that make them want to quit. The semicolon reminds us that every hardship is just a phase, not the end.
In today’s world, where mental stress is high, a simple symbol like the semicolon can be a powerful visual reminder. It’s not just about personal struggles, but it also highlights the importance of empathy, social support, and collective awareness of mental health issues.
Sadly, Amy Bleuel passed away in 2017 after her long battle with depression. However, her legacy lives on through Project Semicolon. To this day, the movement inspires millions worldwide to speak openly about mental health, reduce stigma, and support one another.
A semicolon may just be a punctuation mark, but it has become a universal symbol that every life matters, every struggle has meaning, and every story deserves to continue. "Your story isn’t over", that’s the message Amy wanted to share. And to anyone struggling right now, remember that you are not alone, and your story is still being written.
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