How Alcohol Abuse Can Lead to Depression
It’s no secret that college students are known for drinking to excess. But what many don’t know are the links between alcohol abuse and depression. Alcohol changes the brain’s chemistry, and when someone drinks too much regularly, they’re more likely to develop depression or other mood disorders. It may be hard at first, but you should talk with your doctor about how you can cut back on drinking before it leads to something worse. Connections Between Depression and Alcoholism Alcohol abuse and depression disorders have a two-way relationship. Both can coexist and are prevalent psychiatric conditions that frequently occur together; each …
The Advancements in HIV Treatment
HIV is still a threat, even though advancements in HIV treatments can better help those who are infected. HIV outbreaks have been reported in groups that are already marginalized and stigmatized. With new tools preventing infection and reducing transmission, we have come a long way and continue to eradicate HIV. But with these advances, there has also come a wave of misinformation about how people can contract the virus or get tested for it. So we want to outline some critical information about these treatments, when getting tested is necessary, and how people can learn more about their status. PrEP and …
The National Holiday You Should Care About
Since 1995, June 27th has been designated as National HIV Testing Day—NHTD—in the United States. The main objectives of this essential day are to emphasize and encourage people to: Get tested for HIV. Know their HIV status. Get linked to care and treatment services. Why Is This National Day So Important? Early HIV testing is a crucial element in slowing the spread of HIV infection and saving the lives of those who test positive. Unfortunately, many people are unaware that they’ve been infected with HIV and are unlikely to take the necessary precautions that help prevent the spread to others. On the other …
Preparing for Pride Month
For over 50 years, LGBTQ organizations and countless allies worldwide have commemorated the 1969 Stonewall Riots with outdoor Pride marches, parades, live entertainment, educational workshops, and more. But this year, due to the pandemic and the need to maintain social distancing, these important celebrations may look a lot different during Pride Month 2021. However, just because you can’t march arm-in-arm doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate and carry on the essential work of pushing for change, educating, and supporting LGBTQ communities everywhere. Whether you’re a veteran or a newbie participant, preparing for Pride Month 2021 will surely be unlike any other year that …
HIV Support Groups in Fort Worth
Support. A small word with so many meanings and implications. It may seem like the whole world is suffering right now, and it can cause feelings of shame and embarrassment for those with existing health conditions who still need support for their challenges. Despite a worldwide pandemic, it’s ok to ask for help, whether that means mental health support or HIV support in Fort Worth. …
The History of HIV on the African-American Community
African-Americans are disproportionately affected by HIV, more than any other racial group in the US. Despite a recent overall drop in HIV diagnoses, there are still significant disparities between racial groups. African-Americans accounted for 42% of the HIV diagnoses but made up only 13% of the country’s population in 2018. In the African-American community, black gay and bisexual men are the most affected by HIV, followed by black heterosexual women. More measures must be implemented to help address the fact that the African-American population remains overrepresented across all transmission modes. While prevention efforts continue to increase, certain challenges remain involving HIV and …
Back to the Basics of STDs
No one wants to contract a Sexually Transmitted Disease, yet many people don’t know the best practices to prevent them. When it comes to STDs, knowledge is your best defense. Let’s review some STD basics — some of the most common STDs, how they’re transmitted, and how to prevent them. …
The Importance of Mental Health
October marks an important month in the world of mental health. Mental Illness Awareness Week was October 4-10, and World Mental Health Day was October 10th. Statistically speaking, 2020 has been a trying year in terms of mental health. COVID-19, social unrest, and economic uncertainty are among the leading causes behind increased rates of depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. As we continue through October, we need to talk about the importance of keeping up with your mental health, as well as the methods available for you to do so. …
Men Seeking Men Seeking Help
September 27th marks National Men’s HIV Awareness Day, a day with particular importance. Statistics show that gay men are the most affected by HIV, according to CDC data, with a disproportionate representation compared to the rest of the community. Because of this fact, it’s essential that gay and bisexual men both understand why this is the case, as well as what methods they can use to avoid their risk for catching the virus or having it negatively impact their lives. …