Early Emotional Support & Care – Helps In Handling Venereal Disease
Carelessness at the spur of the moment, like not using condoms or protective barriers or being unaware of the health status of the partner can often lead to being diagnosed with venereal disease.
Being diagnosed with a venereal disease, also commonly known as sexually transmitted infection (STI), can lead to a range of mental and emotional distress. The severity of the mental distress varies from person to person. Some of the common stressors are:
- Social Stigma Feelings of shame, guilt, or embarrassment is common. There is also stigma associated with STIs, which can be a significant source of emotional distress.
- Fear and Anxiety: A diagnosis of an STI can aggravate fear and anxiety about one’s health, potential complications, and fear of the impact on close ones and whether sexual activity can be resumed with confidence.
- Apprehensions About Disclosure: You may worry whether to disclose your STI status to your current partner.
- Impact on Mental Health: Venereal disease diagnoses can worsen mental health issues such as depression and anxiety. The emotional toll can be massive if the infection turns out to be chronic or has long-term health implications.
- Isolation and Loneliness: The fear rejection can lead to social isolation and feelings of seclusion. People diagnosed with venereal disease may isolate themselves from friends and close ones out of fear of disclosure.
- Coping with Uncertainty: Some types of venereal disease treatment have varying courses and outcomes, and this can lead to uncertainty about future health.
However, it is important to keep in mind that most types of STIs are treatable, especially if diagnosed at an early stage.
The ease and convenience of getting venereal disease treatment can vary depending on several factors, including your location, access to healthcare, and the specific disease you are dealing with.
Here are a few things to keep in mind.
- Access to Healthcare: In areas with well-developed healthcare systems, it is typically easier to access venereal disease testing and treatment. You can get services provided by primary care physicians, sexual health clinics, and specialized STI clinics.
- Confidentiality: Many clinics offer confidential and discreet STI testing and treatment services, which can be important for persons concerned about privacy. It is possible to get information about confidentiality policies before seeking care.
- Telemedicine: In recent years, telemedicine has become sufficiently advanced and common for certain aspects of STI care. You will be able to speak with a doctor online and receive guidance on venereal disease treatment options.
- Pharmacies: You may even visit certain pharmacies to obtain treatment for some types of STIs without a prescription. This is true for infections like chlamydia. The pharmacist may provide antibiotics after a brief consultation.
- Preventive Services: Some STIs can be prevented through vaccination. For example, there are vaccines available for HPV (human papillomavirus) and hepatitis B. You can discuss these options with your healthcare provider.
- Insurance Coverage: If you have health insurance, it can substantially reduce the cost of STI testing and treatment. Check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage for these services.
You may wonder whether urgent care centers provide venereal disease treatment.
The good news is many urgent care centers do provide testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The types of services offered can vary by location. Fortunately most urgent care centers can:
- Perform STI Testing
- Prescribe Medications
- Offer Counseling and Education
- Provide Referrals
If you are struggling with the emotional impact of a venereal disease diagnosis, seek professional help and support as soon as possible. With time, support, and proper medical care, you will be able to adapt to the diagnosis and eventually lead a healthy, fulfilling life.