Blog
Herpes: Shifting from Victimhood to Empowerment
This week, our support group welcomed new and familiar faces, including a member celebrating their 4-year "Living with Herpes" anniversary. It's heartwarming to witness our community grow and evolve while maintaining the same unwavering support for those navigating a herpes diagnosis. Our discussions delved into the complexities of emotions such as victimhood, shame, and empowerment, sparking a powerful conversation about discovering the core issues that herpes brings to the surface and how …
How Do I Deal with Herpes Shame?
This week's support group calls welcomed numerous new members (yay) and those recently diagnosed with herpes (welcome). For those of us who have walked this path, the initial diagnosis wraps us in a veil of shame, creating a fog that seems impenetrable. The beauty of the Secret Society Support Group lies in the collective experience, boasting over 70 years of combined wisdom from individuals living with herpes. Personally diagnosed with HSV1 in 2003 and HSV2 in 2011, I've traversed two decades o…
Navigating Unexpected Rejection: Herpes and the Unseen Impact on Friendships
Living with a herpes diagnosis presents challenges beyond the physical symptoms and the potential rejection from romantic partners. Often overlooked is the heartbreaking reality of facing rejection from those we expect to stand by us unconditionally—our friends and family. In a recent support group meeting, the conversation delved deep into this aspect, shedding light on the often silent but profound impact of rejection within friendships following a herpes diagnosis.
The stories shared in ou…
How Many times People Have Sex
Sexuality forms a vital part of our lives, weaving intimacy and connection into relationships. Yet, pinning down the ideal frequency of sexual activity can be like navigating through uncharted waters. Everyone has unique desires, leading to differing needs for intimacy throughout the week. According to experts, the benefits of regular sexual activity extend beyond pleasure, contributing significantly to both physical and mental well-being while fostering a deeper bond between partners. However, …
Turmoil with the Herpes Outbreak Cycle
Let's talk about the emotional turmoil that accompanies the herpes outbreak cycle. It's akin to being trapped in a cycle, much like the "Hotel California" where you check-in but struggle to leave. The sensation of an outbreak emerging is all too familiar. It starts with tingling, itching, burning, or even pain, signaling another unwelcome episode of herpes. And so begins the roller coaster of anxiety.
This roller coaster doesn't wait for an invitation; it just shows up, demanding attention.…

