The group’s
aim is to provide support and encouragement to people
with Herpes (either genital or oral), and to provide
opportunities for making new friends through organised
social activities.
The role of support groups in coming to terms with
having an incurable STI like Herpes is very often
underestimated. Doctors can test, diagnose, provide
information and prescribe medications, however,
learning to accept and manage your condition often
requires more support than can be provided by the
medical profession.
One major hurdle in coming to terms with Herpes
is dealing with the negative social stigma attached
to the virus. Unfortunately many people are ignorant
of the facts regarding Herpes and make the assumption
that only promiscuous people and sex-workers catch
STIs. This, of course, is not the case. Every sexually
active person is at risk of contracting an STI.
Another aspect which causes many people a great
deal of stress is resuming dating after having contracted
the virus. When, where and how to tell someone your
STI status can be a very real concern. Some people
are so afraid of receiving a negative reaction that
they refrain from dating or attending social functions.
Social / support groups
can play a very important role in helping people
come to terms with having the virus for life, encouraging
people to get on with their lives by sharing their
own experiences – from medication and alternative
therapy experiences, to dating tips and ‘how
to tell’ stories.
The Gold Coast H Friends
group organises regular get-togethers for Herpes people
and their partners. Our members range in age from
20's to over 50's with varied interests, so our activities
are varied too.
. . . Join the GCHFriends Yahoo Group
and add your suggestions
. . . Check out the calendar section for upcoming
events
. . . Singles can check out our Herpes Dating sites
directory
. . . Download our free eBook
. . . Help the group grow
. . . by spreading the word
. . . |
