Let’s be real — tattooing is one of the most rewarding careers out there. But even something you love can wear on your mental health, especially in uncertain times. Let’s be honest, as amazing as tattooing is, it still can take its toll on the mind especially in these strange times. So, it’s a good time to take a minute and assess your own mental health and maybe friends and families as well. With all the craziness and uncertainty in the world, it’s easy to slip into areas of unhealthy patterns and not even notice. Between the pressure to stay booked, rising living costs, and the demands of the craft itself, it’s easy to fall into unhealthy routines without even realizing it.
To celebrate Mental Health Awareness Month, I put together this guide to help you through your journey. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed or just want to build better habits, here are 10 practical ways to support your mental well-being as a tattoo artist.
1. Unplug from the scroll
Your mind needs nourishing content, not constant chaos. Social media and news apps can be a mental junk food buffet—addictive, inflammatory, and exhausting. Make it a habit to step away from your phone and give your brain a break.
2. Feed your curiosity
Instead of doom-scrolling, dive into something new. Learn a different tattoo technique (here are some great books), start a creative project, or try your hand at sourdough baking. The goal? Replace mindless scrolling with mindful learning.
3. Move your body regularly
Let’s face it—tattooers are professional sitters. And long hours hunched over a client can take a toll on your body and mind. Studies show prolonged sitting increases your risk for depression, anxiety, and chronic health issues.
Try this:
- Move every 30 minutes
- Aim for 30+ minutes of daily exercise
- Focus on flexibility, strength training, functional mobility, and cardio
Your body (and your mental health) will thank you.
Maybe it's your chair? Check out the collection of ergonomic artist chairs that may improve your aches and pains!
4. Check in with your gut
Your gut is often called your "second brain"—and for good reason. It produces up to 95% of your serotonin and directly affects your mood, cognition, and energy levels.
Prioritize real, whole foods when you can. Cut back on processed snacks, added sugars, caffeine, and alcohol. And remember—diet soda isn’t a health food.
5. Hydrate like it matters (because it does)
Even mild dehydration can affect your concentration, memory, and emotional regulation. Keep a water bottle nearby in the studio and make hydration part of your daily ritual.
6. Supplement wisely
Not all nutrients are easy to get from food alone—especially with a busy schedule. A high-quality multivitamin, omega-3s, and trace minerals can help fill the gaps and support your mental and physical performance.
7. Try meditation (even if it’s just for 5 minutes)
Meditation isn’t just for monks—it’s a powerful tool for anyone dealing with stress, creative blocks, or emotional overload. It helps you stay grounded, focused, and calm under pressure.
8. Journal—or draw—what’s on your mind
Whether you write it, sketch it, or scribble it down and tear it up, expressing your thoughts on paper can be incredibly cathartic. Don’t bottle up your stress—move it through you creatively.
9. Talk to a pro
Therapy isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s an act of strength and self-awareness. Talking to a mental health professional can help you process what’s going on, work through challenges, and create healthier coping mechanisms.
10. Explore your spiritual side
A spiritual practice—whatever that means for you—can offer grounding, purpose, and clarity. Whether it’s meditation, mindfulness, reading, or connecting with nature, finding a path to deeper self-understanding can be life-changing.
Final Thought:
Even if you’re not struggling, make it a point to check in on your friends, coworkers, and family. Silent suffering is more common than we realize—and support can go a long way.
If something feels off, don’t ignore it. Be proactive. Take care of your mental health now—for your craft, your longevity, and your quality of life.
Stay grounded, stay mindful, and take care of yourselves.
— Gunnar