After 30 Years—You Think We Would Know Better
After 30 years, you think we would know better. It’s been nearly 30 years since men started developing something that caused infection and HIV. This would come to be known as AIDS. You might wonder after all this time, why are we still catching and spreading HIV? There are many reasons but three stick out the most.
Stigma and Stereotypes
The stigma surrounding HIV makes it hard for men who are diagnosed with it to tell their status to a sexual partner, according to the World Health Organization. Many men find it a difficult subject to talk about, and because they are so fearful of it, they rely on assumptions and very stilted conversations to try and get across what they mean” explained Dr. John Miller.
Many HIV+ men are afraid of being rejected if they disclose their HIV status. I have talked to many positive men who tell me that being HIV+ makes them feel devalued which often results in making risky sexual choices. Stereotypes, the ideas we have based on assumptions, also play a part in the spread of HIV. Some guys think you can tell who is HIV+ by their looks or actions. Believe it or not, research still shows that a majority of gay men still think this. The truth is that many men who are HIV+ look healthy and have no outward signs of infection.
Stigma around HIV is a difficult problem to overcome. All gay men can play their part in stopping the stereotyping. Don’t assume someone is HIV positive or negative, or have sex based on your stereotypes. You might be putting yourself or someone else at risk.
Lack of HIV Testing
Most men don’t test because they, rightly or wrongly, see no need. They are sure they are negative and perceive they haven’t taken risks. Men who have the virus but are unaware of the fact stand a greater chance of infecting others than those who are receiving treatment.
If you don’t know your status, it’s important to get tested. If you do know it, and you’re negative, then test regularly. Rapid tests offered at many places in Delaware (including CAMP Rehoboth) mean you get your results in minutes.
Poor Mental and Emotional Well-Being
Guys with low self-exteem might not be getting the emotional support they need, which means they are more likely to go out and take risks. There have been many studies of HIV+ men that showed life traumas, including break-ups, lack of self-esteem, body image issues, and depression can create more reasons to feel bad about yourself. When you don’t care, you’re likely to make risky choices.
If any factors are affecting your ability to make rational choices, you need to do something about it. Speak to a friend or seek counseling.
CAMPsafe, an HIV/AIDS program of CAMP Rehoboth, is funded through a contract with the Delaware Division of Public Health. E-mail salvatoreseeley@aol.com. Confidential HIV and STI testing is available at CAMP Rehoboth. Call Sal at 302-227-5620 to schedule an appointment.