Blog

Herpes and Mental Health: Coping with the Emotional Impact

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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…

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Building a Support System: Why Joining a Herpes Support Group Matters

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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…

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Managing Herpes Outbreaks: Tips and Tricks

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Practical Advice for Reducing Outbreaks and Living Comfortably


Managing herpes outbreaks can be a significant concern for those living with the virus. Outbreaks can be uncomfortable, painful, and emotionally distressing. However, with the right strategies and tips, you can reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks and live more comfortably. In this post, we'll provide practical advice for managing herpes outbreaks effectively.

Understanding your triggers is the first step in managing …

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Embracing Your Inner Queen: How to Maintain Your Self-Worth After a Herpes Diagnosis

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Elevate Your Self-Worth: Embrace Your Inner Queen (or King) with Coach Sarah Joy’s Insights



Wow, this week's conversation in the support group was nothing short of amazing. We had the privilege of having Coach Sarah Joy join our morning call, and as always, she brought a wealth of knowledge to our community. For those of you unfamiliar with Coach Sarah Joy, she’s been a recurring guest on my podcast and is an honorary member of the Secret Society. Her expertise on topics like the HSV virus,…

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How to Tell Your Partner About Herpes with Confidence

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A Guide to Having Honest and Fearless Conversations

One of the most daunting aspects of living with herpes is disclosing your status to a partner. The fear of rejection, misunderstanding, or damaging a relationship can make this conversation seem impossible. However, with the right approach and mindset, you can navigate this conversation with confidence and clarity. In this post, we'll provide a comprehensive guide on how to tell your partner about herpes.

The first step in disclosing your…

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From Rain Clouds to Sunshine: Navigating the "Eeyore Phase" on Your Path to Acceptance

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Navigating the Eeyore Phase: A Journey from Diagnosis to Acceptance


This week on our support group call, we welcomed new members. It always warms my heart to see new faces and know they are being supported by our community. We all know how lonely, lost, and scared we feel when we’re first diagnosed. Finding the Life With Herpes support group offers a place to grieve, connect, laugh, share our stories, and grow. So, welcome to the new members.

Among those joining us were individuals newly d…

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Herpes Myths Busted: Separating Fact from Fiction

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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…

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Understanding Your Herpes Diagnosis: First Steps and Resources

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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…

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Arginine-Free Diet: Is It Possible and What Are the Benefits and Consequences?

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Exploring the Impact of Diet on Herpes Management

Managing herpes through diet is a common approach for many people living with the virus. One dietary strategy is to follow an arginine-free or low-arginine diet. Arginine is an amino acid that can promote the replication of the herpes virus, and reducing its intake may help manage outbreaks. In this post, we'll explore whether an arginine-free diet is possible, its benefits, and potential consequences.

Arginine is found in many foods, including…

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If You’re Suddenly Getting More Outbreaks, What Could Have Changed?

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Identifying New Triggers and Adjusting Your Management Plan

Experiencing an increase in herpes outbreaks can be concerning, especially if you've previously had them under control. Identifying what has changed and adjusting your management plan accordingly can help you regain control of your condition. In this post, we'll explore potential new triggers for herpes outbreaks and provide strategies for managing these changes effectively.

One of the most common reasons for a sudden increase in outb…

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