# Tattoo Removal in Forensic Mental Health Settings: A Case for Advocacy

## TL;DR

Tattoos from mental health episodes can harm self-esteem, and their removal may aid recovery, especially for those in forensic mental health settings.

## Contribution

Highlights the need for advocacy and support for tattoo removal in forensic mental health patients.

## Key findings

- Facial tattoos from mental illness can hinder recovery and self-esteem.
- Tattoo removal can lead to significant improvement in self-esteem.
- Forensic patients face financial and mobility barriers to tattoo removal.

## Abstract

The significance of visible tattoos in psychiatric patients should be explored with them. This can reveal important information about their psychological well-being. Facial tattoos can impact the individual’s appearance and self-esteem, especially if the tattoo(s) were acquired during an episode of mental illness. It serves as a constant reminder of the time when the person was unwell and can hinder progress and rehabilitation. Removal of such tattoo(s) can aid in the recovery of these patients. While tattoo removal services are available, patients with chronic and severe mental health problems often lack the funds for tattoo removal. Similarly, patients within forensic mental health settings may have additional restrictions on their movement, which serve as a barrier to accessing treatment. We would like to discuss the case of a young male patient who is undergoing tattoo removal with significant improvement in self-esteem and call for advocacy in this regard.