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Herpes 101
Herpes Myths and Facts: Dispelling Common Misconceptions
Separating Fact from Fiction About Herpes
Herpes is a common condition, but it’s surrounded by numerous myths and misconceptions. These false beliefs can create unnecessary fear, stigma, and misunderstanding. In this post, we’ll debunk some of the most common myths about herpes and provide accurate, fact-based information to help you understand the condition better.
One prevalent myth is that only promiscuous people get herpes. This is simply not true. Herpes can affect anyone, regardless of t…
The Hidden Cost of Hatred: How Letting Go of Anger Toward Your Gifter Can Set You Free
Here’s a great video on hate. I’ve talked about this before on our calls and at our retreat. When we harbor ill will toward someone (our "gifter"), it doesn’t impact him or her nearly as much as it impacts you. You see, our ego—or subconscious—doesn’t differentiate between thinking ill will toward someone else and thinking it about ourselves. Ultimately, when you send negative energy toward another person, your subconscious interprets it as directed inward.
For those of…
Coping with Herpes Diagnosis: Mental Health and Emotional Well-being
Strategies for Navigating the Emotional Challenges of Herpes
Receiving a herpes diagnosis can be an emotional experience, often leading to feelings of anxiety, depression, and isolation. It's important to address these emotional challenges and prioritize your mental health. In this post, we'll explore strategies for coping with a herpes diagnosis and maintaining your emotional well-being.
The first step in coping with a herpes diagnosis is to acknowledge your feelings. It's normal to feel a ra…
Understanding Asymptomatic Herpes: What You Need to Know
Navigating the Challenges of Symptomless Herpes Infection
Herpes is often associated with visible symptoms like sores and blisters, but many people with herpes never experience any symptoms. This is known as asymptomatic herpes, and it poses unique challenges for diagnosis and management. In this post, we'll explore what asymptomatic herpes is, how it can be diagnosed, and what you need to know about managing it.
Asymptomatic herpes means that a person is infected with the herpes…
Herpes and Mental Health: Coping with the Emotional Impact
Strategies for Managing Anxiety, Depression, and Stigma
A herpes diagnosis can have a significant emotional impact, leading to feelings of anxiety, depression, and shame. The stigma associated with herpes can exacerbate these emotions, making it challenging to maintain a positive outlook. However, it's essential to recognize that you are not alone, and there are strategies and resources available to help you cope with the emotional impact of herpes. In this post, we'll explore how herpes affect…
Building a Support System: Why Joining a Herpes Support Group Matters
Finding Connection and Understanding in a Supportive Community
Living with herpes can be isolating and challenging, but you don’t have to face it alone. Building a strong support system is crucial for managing your condition and maintaining your mental health. Joining a herpes support group can provide you with the connection, understanding, and resources you need to navigate your journey confidently. In this post, we'll explore the benefits of joining a support group and how it can positiv…
Herpes Myths Busted: Separating Fact from Fiction
Debunking Common Misconceptions About Herpes
Herpes is a common condition, but it’s surrounded by numerous myths and misconceptions. These false beliefs can create unnecessary fear, stigma, and misunderstanding. In this post, we’ll debunk some of the most common myths about herpes and provide accurate, fact-based information to help you understand the condition better.
One prevalent myth is that only promiscuous people get herpes. This is simply not true. Herpes can affect anyone, regard…
Understanding Your Herpes Diagnosis: First Steps and Resources
Navigating the Initial Shock and Finding Support
Being diagnosed with herpes can be overwhelming and scary. You might feel a mix of emotions—fear, confusion, and even isolation. But remember, you are not alone, and there are resources available to help you navigate this new chapter in your life. In this post, we'll guide you through the first steps after your diagnosis and provide valuable resources to support your journey.
The first thing to do after receiving a herpes diagnosis is to t…
Does Herpes Have a Smell?
Understanding Symptoms and Hygiene Practices
One common question about herpes is whether it has a distinct smell. Understanding the symptoms of herpes and maintaining proper hygiene can help you manage your condition more effectively. In this post, we’ll explore whether herpes has a smell and provide tips on hygiene practices to keep you comfortable and confident.
Herpes itself does not have a specific smell. The herpes simplex virus (HSV) causes outbreaks of sores and blisters, which ca…
How I Spent My 4th of July with a Herpes Diagnosis - Oh Sh*T Anniversary Pt. 7
Everything feels so out of reach when you are first diagnosed. Everything comes crumbling down and you feel like you're never going to be able to come up for air. It's suffocating and terrifying at the same time. Would love to tell you after I was diagnosed I picked up and was able to straighten my life out right away. That wasn't the case and I did not have a rebound in one day or even the week later.
Back when I was diagnosed I was really struggling. So now it's the 4th of July. I had pla…