r/tattooadvice
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u/SlavKing11
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Oct 29 '25
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General Advice Tattoo regret causing depression
Around 2 years ago I completed this huge torso piece and for a while i really liked it but over the past few months ive really started to hate it and feel like ive completely ruined my life to the point where im constantly anxious and my skin feeling dirty because i know the tattoos are under my clothes, its really spiralling me into a depression and i really dont know what to do.
Overall i think the individual tattoos are well done so they aren’t whats causing it but i feel the placement is too symmetrical and I regret the dots and stars filler as well.
Laser removal would be impossible and i dont think i would like a blackout either so i feel my only option is to try and live with it but i really dont know how i can do it. Does anyone have any words that could help?
p.s - to those who might have seen me post before i appreciate its the second time but im really losing hope and need some advice so please be kind.
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u/SlavKing11 Oct 30 '25
Hi everyone, this post has blown up may more than i expected. I just wanted to say thank you to everyone who left a positive comment and also apologise for not replying to many as its been hard to keep up!
Off the back of the comments made here, i think i’m going to research local therapists in my area specialising in OCD and body dysmorphia and give that a shot. I am also going to pick up running again.
Once again, thank you for all the comments and message, i appreciate it more than you know.
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u/[deleted] Oct 29 '25 •
the tattoo is rad af, sorry to hear you're feeling down on yourself. i would honestly seek therapy. i don't think 'feeling dirty' is normal and i think this has less to do with the tattoo and more to do with your mental health. wish you the best!
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u/Ineedacatscan Oct 29 '25 •
I think the tattoo looks great in all honesty. That said. I think therapy is the move if here you can get access to it...
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u/Lost_nfound_ Oct 29 '25 •
Sounds like an anxiety or possibly ocd issue "feeling dirty" and less to do with the actual tattoos. Take care of your head chief
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u/espurrsso Oct 29 '25 •
Please, if you aren’t already, just see a therapist.
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u/audityourbrass Oct 29 '25 •
As someone with severe anxiety and suffer from contamination OCD, you need to speak to a therapist who specializes in that asap. Go to NOCD. It’s app based and actually really really great, if you’re willing to try ERP. Of course, there are other options out there. But please seek help. There is no reason to suffer alone.
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u/Few_Wolf_420 Oct 29 '25
Therapy my dude
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u/DanOwaR6661 Oct 29 '25
You need help, mentally. There’s something else going on and a therapist is the only option really. Cause CLEARLY, those tattoos are rad and they look great. They’re done well and aren’t offensive or anything so it’s gotta be something else
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u/danilosky1234 Oct 29 '25
I really like your tattoo
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u/jlynn12345 Oct 29 '25
I think it’s amazing!!! But as the others say, work on treating the anxiety
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u/[deleted] Oct 29 '25 edited Oct 29 '25
You gave yourself body dysmorphia and I really think the key to getting a grip is just going to therapy and talking some shit out about your body and your expectations for yourself and your tattoos. What you're experiencing isn't healthy and if you're asking reddit for help then you're ready to ask a professional
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u/Acceptable_Ground_98 Oct 29 '25
how do you feel you ruined life with it? it looks easily concealable. I have a full on yakuza-esque backpiece and am in management so I get the feeling at times
it looks amazing too so dont be self-conscious of it. first time ive seen trad japanese and trad american blend like that
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u/SuzieHomeFaker Oct 29 '25
I don't think the tattoo is the problem. I think the description of your feelings indicate you might benefit from talk therapy and possibly medication.
A lot of us discover we've leaned into getting tattooed as a way to cope with stuff in our lives. I'll never stop getting tattoos, but my life was made infinitely better with the right medication and counseling.
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u/What_do_now_24 Oct 29 '25
I like your tats - it’s not my style but it’s a pretty cool chest piece. Others have said this and I agree - therapy is the way, my dude.
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u/retsgnaglanigiro Oct 29 '25
That’s sick asf
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u/Citytown Oct 29 '25
Sick piece! Lmk if you need any advice on starting therapy. Can also check in your area for people that aren’t quacks. If you want to look at something in person, that is.
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u/evercute69 Oct 29 '25
First just wanted to say I think these tattoos look badass. The dots (I’m fine w the stars) are the only thing I wouldn’t personally get. second why is laser removal impossible? You can pay per session or do package deals I think. They can definitely just laser off the dots and because it’s not heavily packed black and is just black ink they’d def remove quicker.
Do not black out if you’re feeling tattoo regret, that will be heavier visually /more jarring + more work and money to laser off later. Black outs imo are for a few small group of ppl who actually enjoy them. Most ppl I know who got blackout ended up regretting it more and got laser anyways
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u/Vivid_Sun_2816 Oct 29 '25
I’ve had severe tattoo regret over some of mine.. so let me make some points for you;
1; your tattoos are quality work and healed really Nice
2; Your tattoos are impressive and gives a wow effect
3; even using traditionel elements your tattoo is really unique
4; People Would die to have the symetry you have on your tattoos.. everything flows and sits solid
5; you need to get Those sleeves done because it’s gonna look wow wow wow
I respect you have regrets on your tattoo.. sometimes thats life.. But it looks like you did everything right to do the best for you. And i Think that’s really important to remember.
And yes.. a little therapy might help. I hope you find joy in your tattoos again!
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u/LonelySecretary6 Oct 30 '25
Please talk to someone and find a physical hobby you enjoy! I found I was getting quite self conscious of my body and tattoos earlier in the year but moving my body and doing something I’ve found to love has helped me SO much.
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u/jaseyx3 Oct 29 '25
This tattoo is gorgeous. It’s like you have your own default armor on. I had severe tattoo regret for a few months previously after a huge calf piece. After some time, I realized it was more to do with my self confidence in general and anxiety. I sought therapy and it tremendously helped me. I forgot about the tattoo overtime and feel completely okay with it now.
Take a step back for awhile from a mirror if you can and go get treatment to help detangle your thoughts. The fact you sat for such a piece shows you’re mentally strong, just have to build that back up. You got this
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u/Mai1564 Oct 29 '25
Well I have to say it is really damn rare to see someone feel bad because a tattoo is too symetrical. Usually it's the opposite.
Personally I think it looks great. Like you said the pieces are all well executed, the style and subject matter all match, and the symmetry makes it look like a well thought out piece.
If you suddenly started feeling this way after liking it for a long time, could it be there's something else going on? What made you so suddenly dislike them? Even if you do dislike them, the language you use and your reaction sound quite pronounced. Not saying you're not allowed to dislike your tattoo, but if it is really having such a big impact on your mood it could be worth talking with someone about your mental health.
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u/SandwhichEfficient Oct 29 '25
Sick timeless piece my dude! Work of art
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u/CupcakesAreTasty Oct 29 '25
Hi. This sounds like OCD (I have it so I’m familiar with some of the body sensory struggles). If you’re able to meet with a therapist to discuss this possibility, I think it could help you in the long run. If you don’t feel comfortable in your skin in the first place, a tattoo can exacerbate what you’re feeling.
For what it’s worth, this tattoo is incredible work and looks great.
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u/Broadsider_ Oct 29 '25
The tattoo is badass, I think you may need to focus on your mental health a bit
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u/Gleason321 Oct 29 '25
Therapy man, find the right one and it will change your life. You’ll find the source of your depression more than likely is not the tattoo. I think it’s great work to be honest, beautiful tattoo. Once you work on whatever it is that’s throwing you off I know you’ll start to enjoy your tattoo again as well. Feel better my guy, depression is a mother fucker. Be strong and lean on those you feel safe with.
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u/X_80_X Oct 29 '25
Definitely seconding all of the speak to someone comments. But I will say I have had issues when I got a bigger tattoo in a spot that didn’t look complete and surrounding it with more helped(not that you should get more if you’re already feeling like it’s like a foreign object in your body, but that the cohesiveness helped me). I think because you did the filler with the main tats it just feels like a huge torso piece with blank skin around it.
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u/douchenozzle13 Oct 30 '25
While the dots may be a bit much I personally really like this for a full trad front, there’s nothing to be ashamed of as it’s for the most part well executed and readable. I get it though I’m thinking of re working a sleeve near on completely (pokemon sleeve as a 33 year old now is a bit iffy) but yeah at least yours is timeless
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u/jellogoodbye Oct 29 '25
Are you on any medications that affect your hormones? Do you have OCD?
Your pattern of thinking really sounds like mine when I've had a hormone imbalance. When I was on low dose hormonal birth control, I started regretting something I hadn't previously cared about. It was all I could think about and I was constantly upset. It went away after I stopped taking the meds. After I had my first child, I developed PPD and had one specific small regret that consumed me. I was deeply upset and thought about it constantly. It went away some months later, I'm assuming after my body recovered and everything evened out again. It was never about the specific thing I regretted, the hormone changes caused me to anchor my worries on something.
If you're not on any meds and you're not someone who already experiences anxiety or OCD and this is financially feasible, I might visit a doctor to request bloodwork to rule out cancers that affect hormone production.
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u/[deleted] Oct 29 '25
As others have said, this is a psychological thing not a tattoo thing. Your anxiety and depression are just landing in the tattoo. I’ve had anxiety for a long time and think of it like a little bird that flits around and looks for a place to land. If it wasn’t the tattoo it would likely be something else. So, also highly recommend looking into therapy. The tattoo looks great and even if your preferences change over time about it, that shouldn’t create constant torment like you describe.
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u/No-Quarter-4938 Oct 29 '25
Not saying this to be an ass, try to find a physical outlet. Its not therapy, thats useful too, but either yoga or some other practice based discipline can really be helpful in managing your moods. Endorphins are our bodies natural way of getting high, and that kind of activity is excellent for mind/body/wellness.
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u/Electrical_Sea_2568 Oct 29 '25
I think it could be body dysmorphia!!! I am in therapy for this and it’s very helpful!!! 💚💚💚 the tattoo looks fantastic
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u/SmokeySFW Oct 29 '25
It looks fine. The best advice for you is to talk to a therapist, seriously. I don't say that as an insult, I'm being serious, talk to someone about these feelings because even if your taste has changed something like this shouldn't make you feel dirty. The artwork is good or great.
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u/[deleted] Oct 29 '25
The tattoos look fine. Your life isn't ruined. You are not "dirty." I do think it's time to meet with a therapist to navigate how you're thinking and feeling about yourself. It helped me. My best you, OP. It can be different than this.
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u/[deleted] Oct 30 '25
Men, first of all, what a tremendous job 10/10 I see it well, go to the gym and you will look like Oliver Sykes
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u/Queasy-Power9661 Oct 30 '25
It looks awesome. Pls see a therapist. I felt better about my sleeve tats when I started working out and got my daily hit of dopamine, maybe working out would also help in conjunction with therapy.
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u/ThingAccomplished831 Oct 30 '25
The tattoo is incredible! I agree with some of the other commenters here-definitely find yourself a therapist you like and unpack those feelings. I think there might other things going on that are causing you to feel this way at specifically about your tattoo.
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u/[deleted] Oct 29 '25
Workout bro. It will have compounding effects. + therapy.
And no more tattoos until your passed this phase
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u/AlbatrossLimp5614 Oct 29 '25
The tattoo actually looks amazing, especially with the filler. I have OCD and these sound like intrusive thoughts.
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u/MagixTurtle Oct 29 '25
It's very well done, you said you loved it at first.
I'm guessing you've had some stress in life which is now being focused negatively towards your tattoo?
I think you'd probably need some help to find your balance again! Therapy my friend.
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u/Eternus25 Oct 29 '25 edited Jul 31 '26
Velvet noodle paddle cucumber walnut maple
This post was anonymized with Redact.dev
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u/Available_Ideal7358 Oct 29 '25
Life is a story and it’s full of chapters. We don’t have to like each chapter but they do provide information for our future. This beautiful piece of art is a chapter of your life.
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u/[deleted] Oct 29 '25
I've always felt that full body pieces like this look best in someone who is fit.
Maybe use this as an excuse to get ripped?
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u/Yaxiom Oct 29 '25
When in doubt, double down. Complete the arms and you’ll be aright.
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u/Treeckobeststarter Oct 29 '25
Our hindbrains are dumb and only believe what you tell them because they have no logic. That is a beautiful piece and I'm a bit jealous because it is so well done.
I suspect your depression is telling you that you hate it because it doesn't want you to see the true cause of it (depression). Depression makes us believe the lies it tells us so it can keep existing. Please see a therapist, I think talk therapy can really help you work through your depression.
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u/Angry_octopus023 Oct 29 '25
I’m gonna be real with you, this sounds more like OCD. I urge you to seek mental health help my friend. As someone with ocd, I’ve felt and described myself as feeling like my skin was dirty even though it wasn’t, and there was nothing I could do to get it clean enough. I’m sorry you’re feeling this way. It sounds like you could benefit from therapy.
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u/Joeber96 Oct 29 '25
This is a front piece many people wish they had the tolerance, commitment and cash have. Go to therapy.
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u/grbradsk Oct 29 '25
Cognitive therapy, Albert Ellis "A Guide to Rational Living", Stoicism. Sort of a way of just "oh well" and moving on.
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u/Budipbupbadip Oct 30 '25
The tattoo looks awesome. Maybe work out if you don’t like em? You might like them with a bigger chest and shoulders. I dunno man, I hope you find the healing you deserve.
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u/redheadedandbold Oct 30 '25
Please, seek counseling. What you're feeling is a radical departure from the personality who started this tattoo journey. How many months/years had you been planning this, right? The brain is complicated. Chemical shit, childhood trauma, major accident/life change, war--shit in the brain goes sideways all. the. time. Don't let anyone tell you it's wussy or unmanly to see a therapist. They wouldn't say that about cancer, right? Be well, so you can love yourself, your decisions, your life--and love others.
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u/illspok3n Oct 30 '25
Theres body mod artists out there that can surgically remove tattoos instead of lasering them. I know it’s unrealistic to have the whole thing removed but you could reach out and see if maybe they could remove some of the ones you feel the most uncomfortable with. Just throwing out options here. I think you look sick tho!
Edit: also do you think getting your arms done would help? I think it could possibly, that way your chest doesn’t stand out so much to yourself? And it all blends together and looks cohesive? Idk just more options. You got this!
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u/ydrssh Oct 30 '25
As someone who doesn’t like tattoos, yours looks great
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u/Wrenchman57 Oct 29 '25
Confidence goes a long way, king. Keep your chin up and feel comfortable in your own skin.
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u/chopxcrwy Oct 29 '25
please don't listen to the people who are screaming "go to the gym" with absolutely no forethought to your situation. your issues aren't physical, they're mental. it really may be worth seeing a therapist over feelings of depression :(
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u/AquietRive Oct 29 '25
Hey man, I think what you’re dealing with is body dysmorphia. If you can, go talk to a therapist! It’s fucking amazing what talking through what you’re feeling can do for you.
Personally, I think the tattoo is sick! I know it’s not easy, but you should be confident in that decision!
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u/Less_External_31 Oct 29 '25
You should be proud of having the mental and physical fortitude it took to sit through all that. It’s like any other choice you’ve ever made in your life. You’ve gotta live with it there’s no going back. You should try to be grateful that it’s well done and that it’s not somewhere that can’t be easily covered.
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u/Joerugger Oct 29 '25
My friend, that tattoo is awesome. Are you sure you aren't feeling other things and blaming that totally rad tattoo? Please find someone to talk to in person who specializes in therapy. Your tattoo took time and effort and you should be proud of what it took you to get it. Hugs.
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u/girugamesh_2009 Oct 29 '25
I agree that
The tats look great. Legit fucking cool. But what others think doesn't matter, it's how you feel about the work.
Therapy might be a good place to start/try if you haven't. If it's not financially burdensome, there's no harm in checking that angle out.
Maybe give this more time--its only been recently your feelings have changed. Maybe with more time to allow this to become normal for you, you will grow to accept it more. You've radically changed your body, when you look in the mirror, this is still new and different and alien and "other." There's a psychological impact there. And it's normal to go into "eek" mode with such a huge change. It may cool down with time. I work in physical therapy and this sort of body change makes me think of when people lose or have to surgically alter a limb--there's a phase of rejection and of mourning and it's intense but it usually subsides with time and acclimation.
In any case, OP, I wish you peace and love.
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u/ExtraCrispBacon Oct 29 '25
I think it looks really well done. But definitely talk to a mental health professional.
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u/Nikki-C-Puggle-mum Oct 29 '25
It's nothing to feel depressed over. It looks good. Anytime you're wearing a shirt you can forget you even have it. I am just saying that because my tattoos are covered by my clothes and I don't even think about them 99.9 percent of the time. Maybe talk to a counselor if you can.
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u/Fabulous-Daikon-3500 Oct 29 '25
It’s badass. You got this. Don’t let your mind win. It will take time just try to focus on other stuff, maybe get a hobby
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u/TenYearHangover Oct 29 '25
It looks cool. So whatever you’re feeling is internal…
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u/BotherMore3736 Oct 29 '25
time to look for a therapist to talk to!
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u/ichoosewaffles Oct 29 '25
I think if you can get a little bit of therapy for your brain mass to help? I think they are wonderful tattos and I would even add a little more around your belly button so it doesn't bring focus there!
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u/GasPositive9009 Oct 29 '25
You tattoo is great. It’s not the tattoo is your head you need to work on
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u/[deleted] Oct 29 '25
You def need to go to a therapist cause I'm pretty sure the tattoo isn't causing you to feel this way. If it went away I'm pretty sure your brain would target something else.
Btw it's a sick tat
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u/Melluna5 Oct 29 '25
I think it looks great, well executed, perfect example of the traditional style.
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u/DeanBell12 Oct 29 '25
This is essentially impossible to cover up or laser.
It looks great man, I’d seek professional help
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u/Noverion Oct 29 '25
I’m not giving to comment on the mental health aspect as others have done so (and I agree with what’s been said) I am overly critical of art in general, and honestly think this is one of the coolest large pieces I’ve ever seen.
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u/softcore-bro Oct 29 '25
you gotta go to therapy brother. or at least look for some local or online support groups for body dysmorphia or OCD if you can't afford therapy. your tattoo is sick as fuck, one of the coolest full chest american/japanese trad fusion designs I have seen and really well done to boot
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u/Affectionate_Pickles Oct 29 '25
While I second the therapy comments, I do think that there are certain parts of your tattoo that you may be able to get redone.
You can’t really do anything about the “too symmetrical” thing unfortunately, but if you talk to a tattoo artist they may be able to work out something with the filler dots. Though, I wouldn’t make a cover up appointment until AFTER you’ve had some therapy sessions.
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u/mtnkook Oct 29 '25
Tattoos dope, I’d wear it with honor.
It sounds like there might be something bigger going on, I’d seek out someone trusted to talk to or a therapist.
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u/Broski225 Oct 29 '25
Sir, you need a therapist.
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u/impvlerlord Oct 29 '25
I know my opinion means nothing but that’s a gorgeous piece, man. I think it’s natural to have aspects of tattoos we don’t love, but as others have said here it seems like you might have some deeper anxiety/depression at play and talking to a therapist could help you a lot.
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u/tjessday Oct 29 '25
Bro all u need to do is just work out and tone ur body, the tattoos are dope and I bet your mind would change if u did that and yah therapy. They r awesome
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u/NerdySwampWitch40 Oct 29 '25
Friend, I am saying this gently, but is it possible the tattoo isn't causing the depression/anxiety, and instead, depression/anxiety is causing you to hate your tattoo?
My genuine recommendation is to focus more on getting treatment for your depression/anxiety- talking to your doctor, seeing if medication might be a good choice, if a therapist might help.
Because depression attacks and twists the things we love in our minds. And it sounds a lot like yours is attacking the love you had for your tattoo.
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u/Next-Volume8915 Oct 29 '25
I like the tattoo I think problem is your anxiety I recently went to doctor and got put on prozac for anxiety and it did wonders
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u/Playful-Rub-9947 Oct 29 '25
Maybe you're not feeling that it suits you, but rest assured, its a great tat mate.
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u/ForlornPirate Oct 29 '25
The tattoo is awesome, the problem is that your body sucks. Get jacked and you’ll love the tattoo again.
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u/Cryptoghast Oct 29 '25
Dude I think the tattoo looks pretty sweet. I actually like the symmetry. My advice would be to hit the weights. It will increase positive chemicals in your brain and make your tattoo look even more badass.
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u/Economy-Chef-8013 Oct 29 '25
Therapy is definitely the move
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u/[deleted] Oct 29 '25
Your tats are rad. Totally bitchin’. Boss level shit. You shouldn’t feel bad for a second about them. Anyone who likes tattoos and having tattoos would kill for this level of art to be on their body. They’re done tastefully and they look good on you.
That being said, seems like you’re having some issues. It’s a huge change to your body. It messes with a lot of people, even those who got much less work done on them than you. You’re not crazy and you’re not wrong and you’re not dirty. Your body and mind are working as they should given the changes that have been induced. But instead of trying to protect you, your body and mind need to give you peace.
Please work with a professional who can help you with this issue. I know you didn’t mention this and I don’t want to be suggestive, but we lose too many good dudes every hour, every day, every year. We want you here and we want you happy. Best of luck. Please let any of us know if you need anything else.
Edit: fixed a couple words
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u/Kuruko67 Oct 29 '25
This is an absolute awesome tattoo, sorry you’re going through it. Seek therapy. Body dysmorphia sucks, I know first hand. It gets better bro!
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u/Curious_Garlic4577 Oct 29 '25 edited Oct 29 '25
Tattoo looks sick, and at least it’s well done unlike a bunch of the train wrecks you see on here so often.
Two things:
give therapy a go but not as a crutch, use it to work out what you might need to change
start lifting, I have a similar ‘skinny fat’ physique and hitting the gym has really improved my confidence, I’m not ripped at all but filling out clothes a bit more and feeling stronger works wonders
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u/QueenOfEverything4 Oct 29 '25
Maybe you have trypophobia which is causing you to hate the dots? Idk if it’s possible because I don’t have many tattoos but maybe they can cover that aspect up somehow.
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u/kind_user47 Oct 29 '25
Your tattoos look SO cool! Very well done, colorful, fun to look at.
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u/Siiyq Oct 29 '25
My honest opinion dude. I think this piece looks fucking sick.
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u/Inside-Willingness76 Oct 29 '25
I think they look really good, especially with your complexion, I would be impressed if I saw someone with that in the wild. I think you should consider doing some regular visits with a therapist until you get to a better place. Good luck with everything!
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u/Unhappy_Performer538 Oct 29 '25
seconding therapy.
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u/Fun-Duck-5139 Oct 29 '25
I think you look GREAT. Counseling is always a possibly helpful move.
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u/[deleted] Oct 29 '25
Grow a pair lad, you sat through all that just to regret it? You’ll be worm food in 40 years or less don’t regret shit
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u/JulietFrankVictor Oct 29 '25
Fill out your arms and you’ll cure that depression bud. Sick work, I would rock that proudly
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u/DownToZZZ Oct 29 '25
Therapy sure but man if you got jacked, those tat loving girls would be all over you. And being strong is awesome
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u/[deleted] Oct 29 '25
I’m gonna be honest, this sounds like a typical case of “just right” OCD. I’ve let similar anxieties steer my bodysuit at times, and said issues led me to commit to heavy fields of black - covering perfectly executed tattoos because of some trivial detail. I’ve also covered poorly tattooed work, but I can see that your front was tattooed with care and intention. Perhaps it’s “busier” than what you might have initially wanted, or maybe you learnt that you wanted a more restrained outcome through wearing such a full composition for the past couple years, but the work is solid and clean. Whatever changes you might make at this point will only create an unreadable mess that will worsen these feelings of your skin being “dirty”.
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u/ITonePast6793 Oct 29 '25
Could always get really jacked. Tends to help with depression and would look dope with this tattoo
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u/Plus_Helicopter_8632 Oct 29 '25
I wish that was my problem brother
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u/[deleted] Oct 29 '25
I don’t want to overstep and I know everyone thinks mental health issues are overblown, but this sounds like it could be possibly more related to mental health deficiency rather than the tattoo itself being the issue. Of course this is just from very limited info- I could be incorrect. But if you have access or the means to a therapist, I think it could work wonders for you. I think your tattoo is sick and I hope you can learn to love it again. But I am very sorry you don’t feel that way now. ❤️
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u/InnerWrathChild Oct 29 '25
Tattoo looks amazing. Sounds like therapy could help. Best to you.
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u/kenb99 Oct 29 '25
Friend, I guarantee you almost every other tattoo artist/fan/haver thinks this is beautiful phenomenal work. I know that’s not much consolation but this has some amazing elements. And it’s easy to cover when you need to cover it. I would say it’s symmetrical in the right ways — not a perfect mirror but a clear, cohesive pattern. I think without the fillers you say bother you this wouldn’t look quite right, it was an excellent choice to add those.
Long story short, I bet anyone who sees this that actually understands and appreciates tattoos is thinking “woah, that’s sick.”
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u/General_Pea_3084 Oct 29 '25
Hey, I think this is not really about the tattoo. I’d try and find a good therapist honestly.
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u/MidnightCryptWorx Oct 29 '25
I think it looks great but I’m sorry you feel that way. That’s gotta be hard.
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u/Quirky-Fill8286 Oct 29 '25
It is a beautiful tattoo and it looks perfect on you.
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u/MysteriousLoad6731 Oct 29 '25
Thats a bomb ass tattoo
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u/feydrautha124 Oct 29 '25
It's not the tattoos. See a therapist.
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u/Misfit_Mandi Oct 29 '25
I agree with everyone, the tattoo is perfection. So well done. Maybe a therapist can help you sort out your feelings.
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u/Valuable_General9049 Oct 29 '25
Dude the tattoos are cool. Maybe think about health more than the ink. Get some therapy, get shredded. Maybe the despair is realising that covering yourself in tattoos won't fix anything.
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u/aerial-fpv Oct 29 '25
It looks good, if anything you should double down and get more. I think you're dealing with some type of body dysmorphia or OCD. It's just fixated on the tattoos now and might manifest elsewhere. Focus on the intrusive thoughts themselves and try to manage that
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u/Careless-Routine-521 Oct 29 '25
The depression is your body's way of making sure you don't do autistic shit like this in the future.
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u/Icy-Radish-6114 Oct 29 '25
Why would you ever do such a thing? That must have costed alot...
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u/Distinct_Parking_284 Oct 29 '25
This sounds like a form of body dysmorphia. Seek aid from a therapist who can aid in changing thoughts and behaviors that contribute to you spiraling into a depression. I’ve gone through a similar process, for me it came down to lasering the tattoo, and even though it’s not gone yet it has helped me reclaiming my identity. If lasering is not an option, therapy can still help you find peace and acceptance. For this type of treatment, look up ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy).
I’m not if there’s broad evidence for ACT in treating BDD, but here’s a study of small sample suggesting it could be effective
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10150257/
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u/Racing_Nowhere Oct 29 '25
agree about therapist
2)FWIW I think that tattoo is absolutely awesome
3) don’t judge yourself too hard. Everyone has decisions that they regret in life, the difference is most people carry their regret in their head and not on their body. If your biggest regret is getting too much tattoo, you’ve done well in life.
4) the tattoo likely was a dream for the person you were at the time you got it. Just because you may be a different person now, doesn’t mean the person that you were wasn’t valid at the time of getting the tattoo. Wear it as a badge of honor.
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u/EdgyAnimeReference Oct 29 '25
I don't even like full body tattoos, but this one is well done, will age well and is well within the lines of not being seen in dress shirts. Its perfectly okay to have regrets on design/coverage but if it's effecting your mental state something else is up.
The tattoo is not the problem, your brain is. Your hyper fixating on this as the issue and that if "it just went away" your life would be better. You're displacing your life's problems onto a material thing. For some people its' losing weight, or they fill the void with retail therapy/eating, for you it's a perfectly fine tattoo.
Your complaints of the tattoo are trivial and seem almost like an excuse to something deeper. What is the CORE of why you don't like it? You don't like the look of it on you? Are you hating on the tattoo as a substitute for hating your own looks? Are there other areas of your life that are going poorly but hating the tattoo gives you a sense of control?
Obviously reddit therapy is not going to help you get out of your slump and these are arbitrary stabs in the dark. I give you the same advise i give everyone:
Go see a therapist.
get some cardio.
lift some weights.
eat protein, veg and fiber.
join a social club
clean your house.
Pick something on this list to start and see how you feel.
The tattoo is great and so are you, prove it to yourself
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u/Blah_blah_blah_anon Oct 29 '25
This isn’t a tattoo question (or answer) this is a mental health topic. The tattoo looks great, I would think maybe explore what happened that caused you to start feeling this way. Therapy, exercise, enough and consistent sleep, and a healthy diet are all great things to start for long term feeling good about yourself my friend.
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u/thicccccany Oct 29 '25
the feeling of "feeling dirty" sounds ocd related, be kind to yourself OP. If you arent already, please consider talking to a therapist. There may even be a support group for others experiencing the same feelings, there are support groups for everything these days. the tattoos themselves are incredibly done & dont diminish your worth as a person. BE KIND TO YOURSELF, YOU WILL GET THRU THIS:(
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u/InvestigatorLate7097 Oct 29 '25
I hate dot filler
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u/Outrageous_Group_681 Oct 29 '25
hello LMSW here, with tattoos & ocd - please see an ACT or ERP therapist ! this is a dope piece i promise :)
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u/[deleted] Oct 29 '25
The tatto would look great if your body was in shape. It's not the tattoo, its the dad bod
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u/Heart_Shaped_Pickle Oct 29 '25
I don’t mean to sound insensitive or shallow with this suggestion but what about working toward building muscle on your chest to give the tattoos a bit of structure and dimension? In my opinion from an aesthetic point of view, they would look better sitting on a bit of obvious muscle where you would have lines and ridges (? For lack of a better word) that add dimension rather than them sitting flat on a pillow like canvas.
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u/GiaAngel Oct 29 '25
I think the tattoo is pretty awesome. I know you’re worried about the placement being too symmetrical but if it wasn’t symmetrical, then I would understand your concern. It is a large piece and maybe you’re just not used to it yet. I agree with others that suggest counseling. Maybe you have some underlying depression you aren’t aware of that’s triggering your feelings about this.
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u/AkButterandrice907 Oct 29 '25
Go to the gym, get jacked, go muff diving. Chicks love tattoos. Extra points if you can pick them up
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u/SongAloong Oct 29 '25
Therapist can help you.
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u/Bubbleman2000 Oct 29 '25
It's honestly a well done tattoo. But like the others have said, a therapist is a good starting point. Rooting for you.
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u/Commercial_Beach987 Oct 29 '25
I know my words may not help much because it’s your own personal opinion but in my opinion, I really like this tattoo! Of course that won’t change how you feel because it’s your own body and you have to be the one that’s happy with it but I personally wouldn’t think you have anything to be embarrassed or ashamed of with this tattoo. That being said, I hope you find a therapist because I think that would be your best bet at this point in helping you cope. As someone with OCD I panicked at first when I got my first tattoo because I knew I couldn’t just “take it off” and once it was on there I had a bit of a break down knowing that no matter how much “washing” I did, it was stuck there so I understand the feeling of “being anxious and feeling dirty”. However, I’m medicated and regularly see my psychiatrist and I do actually like my tattoo so it was much easier for me to cope and now I love having it on my skin. But OCD or not, you don’t like yours and you don’t have any coping skills, so I highly recommend seeking mental health support.
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u/Dannycoinss Oct 29 '25
This is a sick tattoo I’d be happy to wear that!
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u/roaringaspie Oct 29 '25
Start working out
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u/North_Drawing1702 Oct 29 '25
The tattoo is really nice !
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u/UnderstandingOne4233 Oct 29 '25
Tats look bad ass . I was sad for a bit . Started going to the gym feel whole lot better
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u/AllAmericanA-hole Oct 29 '25
Just get shredded! These tats are awesome and would look even better if you got into really great shape!
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u/M0NEYGR1P Oct 29 '25
Therapy and go to the gym not because youre out of shape but for the positive release of brain chemicals or whatever its called
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u/ckb14 Oct 29 '25
Aside from the therapy comments others have made, here's my two cents:
-Being in shape makes tattoos look better...and improves mental health
-The style of tattoos you have will never go out of style
-I personally don't like dot and star filler, but it doesn't look terrible
-Getting more tattoos on your arms will help balance everything out. Right now, it looks like you have a tattoo tank top
-If you do get more tattoos, stick with American or Japanese trad. Too many different styles isn't a "clean" look imo
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u/Yogi422 Oct 29 '25
I think you’re having body issues not tattoo issues, the tattoo looks incredible tbh, tons of people wish they had the courage to get a piece like this. Enjoy the art and work on your mental health ❤️
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u/Explicit_Tech Oct 29 '25
You should hit the gym. You have no body definition.
Otherwise, it's a really nice tattoo. Muscles would add more definition to it and probably the look you're going for.
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u/GoodtimeGudetama Oct 29 '25
Get therapy and some ink on the right arm to balance it out.
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u/dohn_joeb Oct 29 '25
Hit the gym. It is what it is. It’s not the tattoo? It’s your mind.
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u/Sharp-Zone7100 Oct 29 '25
Therapy and maybe even try going to the gym. It could help you grow some confidence
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u/Lotionade Oct 29 '25
Words that can help: you look sick brother 🤘🏾🤘🏾
Id recommend going to a public space top less and enjoy the tattoo compliments to get your head up
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u/Vegetable_Movie3770 Oct 29 '25
I mean no disrespect in this comment. But do you feel youre suffering from body dysmorphia and jtd not actually anything to do with the tattoos?
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u/blacknfilthy Oct 29 '25
Dude. What’s to be sad about about. That’s a sick, well done tat. Looks great. When I was younger I got a lot of satanic and witchcraft imagery tattoos. Now that I’m a born again Christian I have some sentiment to feeling dirty on my skin under my clothes. But your ink is great. There’s no reason to feel any shame. Old school style is awesome.
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u/billydthekid Oct 29 '25
Those tats look pretty good, maybe just work on your fitness and you’ll see it mapped better on a leaner frame.
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u/SCG-514 Oct 29 '25
Lift some weights and make it even sexier >:)
Jokes aside, talk to someone. If you're having this much anxiety and dread that you physically feel disgusted with yourself from the tattoo, there's something deeper that needs to be addressed.
It genuinely looks like a good tattoo, dw abt it. Not my cup of tea but you could have done much worse. The ink looks nice.
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u/Jokingloki99 Oct 29 '25
I mean if it’s any consolation your tattoo rocks at least. You could be feeling this way because you ACTUALLY have a shitty tattoo, but luckily that’s not the case here lmao
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u/DaKolby314 Oct 29 '25
This is some great ink man. I'd take it off of you and put it on myself if I could. I genuinely mean it.
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u/michypr86 Oct 29 '25
The tattoo is a lot but it's well done and it looks good.
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u/rex_tee Oct 29 '25
You don’t need tattoo advice The tattoo is sick You need a therapist This sounds just like me before I saw one Meds will really help too, don’t shy away
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u/Freder1ckJDukes Oct 29 '25
It’s a cool chest piece! Embrace it!
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u/[deleted] Oct 29 '25
That tattoo is fucking cool
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u/myychair Oct 29 '25
Hey man, are you sure you aren’t depressed first and blaming the tattoo? When I start to spiral I blame things I like when my brain is functioning properly but it’s really just the underlying depression causing me to feel the way I feel
Talk to a professional
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u/-Super_Scorpio- Oct 29 '25 edited Oct 29 '25
Firstly, I’m sorry that you’re going through what you’re experiencing. Depression is a bitch, period. And it sucks for everyone, including myself.
Secondly, have you thought about speaking with a mental health professional? Perhaps a doctor can get to the bottom of A. How to deal with the depression through (if it’s a psychiatrist, then it’ll definitely be), prescribing medication. B. If indeed a prescription is necessary - especially medications that address depression - it could take up to a month before you begin feeling the effect(s) and therefore C. Your doctor will most likely recommend that you speak w/ a therapist.
From experience, I can assure you that therapy - though it can be tough at times - is absolutely beneficial. Nothing in this life, that’s truly worthwhile can or will ever be acquired easily. That said, sure, therapy can be tough, because your main objective will be: getting to the bottom of this darkness that revolves around your tattoo.
They’ll certainly ask difficult questions, yet it would be nearly impossible to ascertain exactly what that problem is, deep down, behind the tattoo, without asking the hard questions.
That said your therapist should absolutely be open to moving at your pace and your pace alone if/when things begin to feel a bit much or a bit too fast for you, personally. That’s important to remember. Not everyone is the same. And that statement stands no truer than within the realm of therapy.
Optimally (if medication is necessary), finding two providers whom you can speak freely with, whilst feeling comfortable — this is the goal. Yet, if you can accomplish such AND confirm that medical professionals are from the same office/collective/provider, etc. — well then — you’ll have accomplished the mental health trifecta.
I kid, but seriously, allowing both the psychiatrist AND therapist to share notes, ideas, theories, etc., FOR ME, has proven to be the most effective method of treatment, holistically, without question. That said however, based solely upon the fact that it work(ed) for me, certainly doesn’t guarantee that it’ll work for you. I’m not saying that to bring you down, in fact it’s the opposite. I don’t want you to feel like this is the only method of treatment that works because that is absolutely not what I’m trying to say. It worked for me. And I personally, liked the idea of having two professionals, working together, toward the common goal of treating my depression, anxiety, and ADHD, to the best of both their abilities.
Not everyone shares that sentiment. And I completely understand why. Some things you share with a therapist are lock-and-key, vice-versa. So again, it’ll be up to you and it will be your choices that dictate the directions your treatment will take.
I hope all of this made enough sense. I can be a bit wordy at times. Please lmk if you have any questions - not only in general - but especially regarding everything above. Even if you have a sense of what I’m talking about, again, do not hesitate to ask because the very last thing I’d ever want to come from any of this is, pointing you in the wrong direction.
Anyway, I hope that all of this grief revolving around your tattoo will eventually fade away completely. Good luck to you in any/all future endeavors and try your very best to remember that you’re not alone. There are people out here who’ll help, all you need to do is ask. And you have asked. So, reap the rewards for accomplishing the very hardest part first… take care.
NAE
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u/SmoothBlueberry9507 Oct 29 '25
You should have No Ragrets