News Archives - Engage Men's Health

OH CRAB! – LET’S TALK ABOUT PUBIC LICE

May 12, 2023 Luiz DeBarros News Comments Off

If you have pubic lice (or genital crabs), don’t feel alarmed or ashamed. Many people get crabs and while they can be annoying and cause discomfort, it’s easy to treat them.

What are pubic lice (crabs)?

Pubic lice are tiny insects (2mm long) and grey-brown in colour. They can be hard to spot, but sometimes you may be able to see them in your hair. They most often live on pubic hair around the penis or vagina but can also be found in hair on the chest, armpits, face, and eyelashes. They do not affect hair on the head.

What are the symptoms of pubic lice?

Intense itching, which is usually worse at night
Small red or blue spots on your skin (lice bites)
White/yellow dots attached to your hair (lice eggs)
Dark red or brown spots in your underwear (lice poop)
Crusted or sticky eyelashes, if eyelashes are affected

How do you get crabs?

You can get genital crabs through close contact with another person, such as during sex.

Are pubic lice an STI?

Pubic lice often get lumped in with sexually transmitted infections (STIs). That’s because people get pubic lice most often during sex. But pubic lice aren’t an actual disease or infection.

How do you treat pubic lice?

Crabs can cause intense itching but are treatable. Pubic lice treatment usually involves special shampoos or creams to kill the lice.

Who is most at risk of pubic lice?

Pubic lice are usually spread through sexual contact and are most common in sexually active teens and people in their 20s. Having multiple sexual partners increases the chances of getting crabs. It’s important to note that people who have other sexually transmitted infections are at higher risk for pubic lice.

Does PrEP or condoms protect against crabs?

PrEP or condoms do not protect against pubic lice.

Should my sex partner(s) get treated for crabs?

Get in touch with your sexual partner(s) from the previous two months. They may have pubic lice too and will need treatment.

Does shaving get rid of crabs?

No, shaving your pubic area with a razor isn’t a treatment to get rid of crabs.

Does rubbing alcohol kill pubic lice?

You shouldn’t attempt to use rubbing alcohol to kill pubic lice. This may be effective in adult lice, but it’s not effective against nits or eggs. You should only use the medications your healthcare provider recommends.

How can I prevent genital crabs?

The only way to prevent pubic lice is to avoid any close physical contact with people who have it. Still, you can take reasonable steps to lower your risk for crabs and prevent them from coming back:

Do:

Avoid sharing personal items like clothes or towels.
Use pubic lice treatment which usually involves special creams or shampoos to kill the lice. After treatment, make sure to comb any nits (eggs) out of your hair.
Make sure your partner(s) get treated if you had pubic lice.
Wash clothing, bedding, and towels in hot water.
Finish treatment and check that the crabs are gone before resuming sex.

Don’t:

Have sex or close physical contact with someone who has pubic lice.
Share clothing, bedding, or towels with a person who has pubic lice.
Use insecticide sprays. They don’t control pubic lice and can be harmful to you.
Try on bathing suits when shopping. If you do try them on, wear underwear.

Can I use pubic lice shampoo preventively?

Perhaps you found out that a sexual partner from the past month has pubic lice. It’s fine to use one of the lice shampoos or creams before you have symptoms to be safe.

Will frequent showers prevent pubic lice?

Getting pubic lice has nothing to do with your hygiene. You get pubic lice by having close physical contact with a person who has them.

Are pubic lice dangerous?

No, pubic lice won’t cause serious health concerns. Usually, the main problems that the lice cause are itching and discomfort. You may get a bacterial infection if you end up scratching your skin a lot.

How long does it take to get rid of pubic lice?

Most treatments take about two weeks. If the lice don’t go away completely, you may need to repeat treatment.

Can I get pubic lice more than once?

Yes, you can get pubic lice again. Take steps to prevent pubic lice so you don’t get them again.

When can I resume sex?

Pause your sex life until both you and your partner(s) have finished treatment. Check that the lice haven’t returned. This could take about two weeks.

When should I see a healthcare provider?

In most cases, over-the-counter treatment from your pharmacy is effective in killing the lice. If this doesn’t work, contact a healthcare provider who may need to prescribe a stronger medication.

Does EMH prescribe treatment for pubic lice?

No, EMH does not. But you can get over-the-counter treatment without a doctor’s prescription from any Dischem, Clicks, or other pharmacy.

Engage Men’s Health offers free and friendly sexual health services to gay, bi and other men who have sex with men in Johannesburg, Nelson Mandela Bay and Buffalo City. Our services include HIV testing, treatment of HIV and other STIs, PrEP, PEP, and HIV self-testing kits. For more information or to book an appointment call/WhatsApp 082 607 1686.

AM I OKAY?

May 9, 2023 Luiz DeBarros News Comments Off

In addition to the challenges that the general population face, members of the LGBTQ+ community are burdened with experiences related to stigma, marginalisation, and discrimination. These factors make mental health challenges at least twice as likely for this population.

Traumatic experiences and emotional pain from the past can significantly impact our current state of mind without us always being aware of it. These can manifest in various ways, and it is not always easy to recognise the symptoms. However, it is crucial to address mental health challenges as they can significantly impact your quality of life. So, how do you know if you have mental health issues that need to be addressed?

Here are some signs that may indicate you have mental health issues:

Persistent sadness or anxiety
If you experience persistent feelings of sadness or anxiety, it may be a sign of a mental health problem. These emotions can interfere with your daily activities, such as work,
school, or relationships.

Social withdrawal
If you find yourself withdrawing from social activities that you once enjoyed, it may be a sign of a mental health issue. Social withdrawal can be a symptom of depression or anxiety, and it can worsen the condition if left unaddressed.
Poor concentration
If you struggle to concentrate or have difficulty completing tasks, it may be a sign of a mental health problem. Poor concentration can be a symptom of various conditions such as ADHD (Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder), depression, or anxiety.
Sleep disturbances
Sleep disturbances such as insomnia (difficulty sleeping) or oversleeping can be a sign of a mental health issue. These problems can cause fatigue, irritability, and difficulty functioning during the day.
Mood swings
If you experience sudden and extreme changes in mood, it may be a sign of a mental health problem. These changes can be severe and disruptive to your daily life.
Substance abuse
If you turn to drugs or alcohol to cope with stress or emotions, it may be a sign of a mental health problem. Substance abuse can worsen the symptoms of an existing condition and can lead to addiction.
Physical symptoms
Physical symptoms such as headaches, stomach problems, and chronic pain can be a sign of a mental health issue. These symptoms should also be addressed by your doctor or health care provider, but they can often be triggered by stress or anxiety.
Unusual behaviour
If you engage in unusual behaviour or find yourself doing things that are out of character, it may be a sign of a mental health problem. These behaviours can be a symptom of a variety of conditions such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia.
Thoughts of self-harm
If you experience thoughts of self-harm or suicide, it is crucial to seek help immediately. These thoughts are a sign of a mental health problem and require immediate attention.
Difficulty coping with stress
If you find it challenging to cope with stress, it may be a sign of a mental health issue. Coping mechanisms such as self-care or therapy can help you manage stress and improve your mental health.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is essential to consult a counsellor, mental health professional, or at the very least talk about it with someone you trust.

Having mental health difficulties is nothing to be ashamed of; many of us experience some of these challenges at least once in our lives. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and taking care of your mental health is essential for overall well-being.

WHAT A MAN! CELEBRATING GUYS WHO TAKE CARE OF THEIR SEXUAL HEALTH

May 3, 2023 Luiz DeBarros News Comments Off

Despite significant advances in HIV treatment and prevention, some men still lack knowledge about HIV, perpetuate HIV stigma, and shame those who take care of their sexual health. This may be due to their lack of exposure to relevant and current information, having incorrect information, or fear.

There are a few key points to consider about PrEP, ARVs, and HIV risk.

PrEP is a daily pill that has been proven to be up to 99.9% effective in preventing HIV transmission when taken as prescribed. This is important because research has shown that men do not always use condoms consistently, even when not using any other HIV protection method.
Although slut-shaming men on PrEP was more common when it first became available, it still occurs today. When a man mentions that he is on PrEP, other men may assume that he is promiscuous or engaging in risky sexual behaviour. This stigma is similar to the shame that women may face for using birth control.
Most HIV infections occur when men do not know their own HIV status, assume that their sexual partner is negative, or take someone’s word for it when they say they are negative. Statements such as “I’m clean, you be too,” “Neg4Neg,” “Disease-free,” or “Sorry, no poz guys” are common and reflect the stigma surrounding those living with HIV. They also indicate ignorance about the reality of dating HIV-positive men.
The U=U campaign is an international effort to raise awareness about the benefits of ARVs. U=U stands for “Undetectable = Untransmittable,” meaning that an HIV-positive person on ARVs who has an undetectable HIV viral load cannot transmit HIV, even without using condoms.
A person living with HIV is considered to have an “undetectable” viral load when ARV treatment has brought the level of the virus in their body to such low levels that blood tests cannot detect it. Scientists have proved that someone who is HIV-positive with an undetectable viral load because of treatment cannot transmit the virus during sex to their partners.

It is important to avoid judgment and prejudice rooted in ignorance, which are always unattractive qualities in a man. Men who take ARVs and PrEP are more likely to be informed and in control of their sexual health, which means that their HIV risk is lower than those who are uninformed or unaware of their HIV status. Let’s recognise and celebrate men who take care of their sexual health and that of their partners. What a man!

Engage Men’s Health offers free and friendly sexual health services to gay, bi and other men who have sex with men.

Our services include:

* HIV testing

* Treatment of HIV and other STIs

* PrEP

* PEP

* HIV self-testing kits

For more information or to book an appointment call/WhatsApp 082 607 1686.

MSM: The low-down on the down-low

March 20, 2023 Luiz DeBarros News Comments Off

The term “men who have sex with men,” or MSM, can be confusing, as is the idea that a man can identify as straight but still have sexual contact with men. So, what does it mean and why is it used?

The term MSM originated in the 1980s in the context of efforts to understand men’s sexual behaviour as it relates to HIV transmission and prevention.

Experts in the HIV field recognised that not all men who engage sexually with other men identify as gay or bisexual. This made it difficult for their HIV prevention and treatment messaging to reach all those men who may be at higher risk of HIV.

Because some MSM don’t identify as gay they might not read or watch sexual health material about safer sexual practices between gay men because they don’t think it’s for them.

Another concern was that some MSM who are married to women have unprotected sex with men in secret and then also have unprotected sex with their wives, which puts these women at high risk of getting infected with HIV.

It’s important to reach all MSM because the risk of HIV during unprotected anal sex is as much as 18 times greater than vaginal intercourse. The reasons for the increased risk include factors such as:

The fragility of rectal tissues, which allow the virus direct access into the bloodstream through tiny tears or abrasions
The porousness of rectal tissues, providing access even when undamaged
The high concentration of HIV in semen and pre-seminal fluid if someone is not on HIV treatment

The term MSM was thus created to encompass all men who have sex with men. The idea was to separate sexual behaviour from sexual identity and to reduce the potential stigma that is associated with gay identity in some communities and regions.

This means that gay or bisexual men are MSM but not all MSM are gay or bisexual. MSM refers to a wide range of groups of men that include:

Self-identified gay, bisexual, pansexual, queer and sexually fluid men
Self-identified heterosexual men who engage in voluntary sex with other men in prison
Self-identified heterosexual men who engage in sex with other men as a means of survival in prison
Men who have sex with men but have limited or no romantic feelings towards their male partners
Men who have sex with men for economic gains like some sex workers or porn stars
men who have sex with cisgender or transgender women but also have sex with men
Men who self-identify as “same-gender loving” and men who self-identify as “questioning”
Men who “experiment” sexually with other men, even if occasionally
Closeted men who don’t or can’t come out due to reasons like religion, culture or familial pressures, known by terms like After-9s or men on the “down-low”

Prevention strategies that target people based on “what you do” rather than “who you are” are more likely to reach more people who may be affected by a public health concern. They offer a larger number of men the opportunity to understand their risk and take the steps necessary for protection or treatment.

However, you may fit into the MSM category, it’s important to address your sexual health needs with health providers who are stigma and shame-free. Your sexual health is important, not only for you, but also for your partners and the community at large.

Engage Men’s Health offers free and confidential sexual health services to gay, bisexual and other MSM in Johannesburg, Nelson Mandela Bay and Buffalo City. We welcome all men who have sex with men – whether you are gay, bi, sexually fluid or straight, out or in the closet – without stigma or shame. What’s important to us is providing a safe environment where you can be yourself.

For more information, to discuss your sexual health needs or to make an appointment, call or WhatsApp 082 607 1686.

ALL BY MYSELF – AN INSIDE LOOK AT LONELINESS AND ISOLATION

March 10, 2023 Luiz DeBarros News Comments Off

As humans, we all have an innate need for social connection and companionship. However, for gay, bi and other men who have sex with men (MSM), this need can often go unfulfilled, leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation. The reasons for this are complex and multifaceted.

Even though society has come a long way in terms of accepting same-sex sexuality and relationships, there are still pockets of discrimination and stigmatisation. These attitudes can manifest themselves in various ways, such as hate crimes, bullying, and harassment, which can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation. These negative attitudes can also create barriers when trying to establish relationships, whether they are romantic, platonic, or familial.

Another reason why gay, bisexual, and other MSM can feel lonely is due to the complexities within these communities. Most MSM have experienced rejection and discrimination at some point in their lives, but for some of us, this experience can cause us to fear meeting new people or forming new relationships. This fear of rejection is particularly potent on gay dating or hook-up apps and sites.

Gay culture has often had a bad reputation for being superficial and materialistic. Though this is a stereotype, there are some truths to this. There are broadly three types of gay or MSM that are seen to have currency when it comes to desirability and status.

Youth, fame or beauty: These guys often have more social value.
Bodliness: A muscled body has more social power and a big penis is objectified as masculine.
Materialism. The more money, the higher the social status.

Some men can be relentless in their pursuit of a man that lives up to one or more of these attributes. This is pretty evident in how some of us conduct ourselves online on apps like Grindr where our interactions can be rude, insensitive, or vicious to those that do not sufficiently meet our ideal “standards”.

While there is nothing inherently wrong with casual sex, the focus on physical pleasure rather than emotional connection can leave some gay and MSM feeling empty and unfulfilled. This can lead to a sense of disconnection from others, and a reluctance to seek out deeper connections for fear of being rejected or judged. This fear can lead to avoidance of social situations and isolation.

Past traumas can also contribute to feelings of loneliness and isolation among gay and MSM. Many of us may have experienced trauma, such as physical or emotional abuse, from family members, past relationships, or bad hook-up experiences. These experiences can leave a lasting impact and lead to feelings of mistrust and fear, making it challenging to form new relationships.

Negative self-talk or low self-esteem are other factors that can contribute to loneliness and isolation among gay and MSM. It is not uncommon for us to internalise negative societal attitudes and stigmatisation, which is called internalised homophobia. This can lead to feelings of self-doubt and low self-esteem. This negative self-talk can also manifest itself in a reluctance to form new relationships and the belief that we are not worthy of love or feeling that we are not desirable.

Loneliness and isolation can have a significant impact on health and mental well-being. When we are socially isolated, we may be less likely to engage in healthy behaviours like exercise, eating a healthy diet, and getting enough sleep. This can increase our risk of developing chronic health conditions. Social connection and support have been shown to play a vital role in maintaining a healthy immune system.

The Harvard Study of Adult Development is one of the longest and most comprehensive studies of adult life ever conducted. The study has been tracking the lives of 796 participants for over 80 years.

Findings from the study show that people who are more socially connected live longer and have better health outcomes than those who are less connected. It’s not just about the number of relationships, but the quality. The study found that people who had strong, supportive relationships with their spouses, family, and friends tended to be happier, healthier, and even live longer than those who didn’t.

Loneliness is associated with an increased risk for various health problems, including heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, obesity diabetes, and depression. It has been linked to depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation and can be as damaging to our health as smoking and obesity. Isolation and loneliness can also impact on sleep quality and may increase the risk of developing dementia and other cognitive impairments in later life.

Here are a few things you can consider for combating loneliness and isolation:

Build a support system. This can include friends, family, and supportive organisations or groups. Creating a support system can help alleviate feelings of loneliness and provide a sense of belonging.
Engaging in activities that promote social interaction can also help combat loneliness and isolation. This can include joining a social group like movie groups or dog walking, volunteering, or attending social events or gatherings.
Therapy or going for counselling can also be an effective way to address loneliness and isolation. This can be beneficial to work through past traumas, negative self-talk, and fear of rejection.
Practice self-care. People who isolate themselves often stop looking after their appearance and making an effort to look good or presentable. Taking care of yourself physically and emotionally can help you feel more confident and resilient. This can include getting regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, and engaging in activities that bring you joy.
Connect with others online. The internet can be a great tool for building connections with others, especially during times when it may be difficult to meet in person. Consider joining online forums or social media groups for LGBTQ+ individuals.
Reconnect with old friends you haven’t spoken to for ages or have neglected.

Remember, it’s okay to feel lonely sometimes. It’s a natural human emotion that we all experience at one point or another. However, if you find yourself consistently feeling isolated and disconnected from others, it’s important to take steps to address these feelings. By seeking out community, practising self-care, and connecting with others online or in person, you can build the support system you need to live a happy, healthier life.

DON’T STOP! KEEP GOING.

February 9, 2023 Riaan Norval News Comments Off

There are many reasons why people living with HIV may interrupt or stop taking their ARVs. These could include lack of access to healthcare and medication, cost of treatment, stigma and discrimination, side effects of the medication, difficulty adhering to a strict regimen due to addiction, being homeless or financial challenges. Additionally, some people may not be aware of the importance of sticking to their treatment plan or may not fully understand the consequences of not taking their medication as prescribed.

South Africans are feeling the pressure as our economy takes a beating. The cost of living keeps going up, forcing us to re-evaluate what we spend our money on. We compromise on some things to suit our budgets whereas others we choose to live without.

This can put some people in very stressful situations where choices have to be made to survive. This is particularly tough for people who live with HIV and are forced to choose between food, electricity, or getting hold of their life-saving HIV medication which in turn can force a person to not be adherent on their ARVs.

It’s important to understand why adherence to your ARVs is very important and why it should be avoided at all costs.

Modern ARVs (HIV medication) are highly effective at controlling HIV. When taken as prescribed, ARVs can suppress the virus to undetectable levels, which means that the virus is present in the body but at such low levels that it cannot be detected by standard laboratory tests. This is known as viral suppression or undetectable.

When an individual’s HIV is suppressed, the risk of transmitting HIV to others is greatly reduced, and when a person reaches the undetectable level, the chances of passing HIV onto someone are 0%. Additionally, if an individual is virally suppressed, their CD4 count (a measure of the immune system’s health) will typically increase and the individual’s risk of developing serious health complications from HIV is also reduced.

It’s important to note that adherence to ARV treatment is crucial for it to be effective. Missing doses can lead to the development of drug-resistant strains of HIV in your body, which can make treatment more difficult and expensive in the long run.

Staying adherent to your ARV treatment can be challenging, especially when facing financial struggles. Here are a few strategies that may be helpful:

ARVs are widely available in South Africa and one can get them for free from HIV-focused NGOs or government clinics.
Look into assistance programs: Some organisations like EMH provide services on certain days that might be easier to access than going to a clinic. Some organisations also have drop-off services for meds. Speak to your HIV caregiver and ask if these types of services are available.
Plan ahead: Try to plan to make sure you always have enough medication on hand. You can also ask if your HIV healthcare provider can supply more than just a month.
If you are worried about taking ARVs on an empty stomach, remember that ARVs can be taken with or without food. The majority of ARVs work better taken on an empty stomach and this could help reduce side effects if you recently started ARV treatment for the first time.
Use medication reminders: Set reminders on your phone or use pill boxes to help you remember to take your medication.
Don’t skip doses to make the ARVs last for a longer period. You need to try to be at least 98% adherent every month for them to work This means you cannot skip more than two doses a month.
Find a support system: Talk to friends and family or join a support group for people living with HIV like Positively Alive. This can help you feel less alone and provide an extra layer of support.

Engage Men’s Health offers free and friendly sexual health services to gay, bi and other men who have sex with men. Our services include:

* HIV testing

* Treatment of HIV and other STIs

* PrEP

* HIV self-testing kits

* PEP

For more information or to book an appointment call/WhatsApp 082 607 1686.

INFIDELITY – CAN A RELATIONSHIP BE SAVED?

February 6, 2023 Riaan Norval News Comments Off

Infidelity is one of the most devastating things that can happen in a relationship or marriage. According to research, 30-60% of marriages deal with an affair, many of which end in divorce.

Why do people cheat? All relationships change over time and with it changes the dynamics in the relationship. Gay men that have been together for a long time often find that a relationship that started off as passionate and where sex played a big role, transforms into something more like ‘brothers’ or ‘besties’.

Some people cheat because they feel unsatisfied or unfulfilled in their current relationship, while others cheat because they have a desire for novelty or excitement. Some people cheat as a way to cope with personal issues such as low self-esteem, insecurity, or a lack of emotional intimacy in their current relationship.

Additionally, some people cheat due to external factors such as being away from their partner for long periods of time.

Besides the emotional damage of infidelity, it can also significantly impact health. If partners have unprotected sex as a couple but one (or both partners) also have high-risk sex with other people, this puts both at risk for HIV and other STIs. It is very cruel and selfish if one partner has unprotected sex outside the relationship while the other partner is unaware that they are also at risk.

If you have experienced infidelity, it can be difficult to know where to begin to repair the damage. Many, though deeply hurt from the affair, still want to salvage the relationship. Here are some steps you can take to try help you renew trust and work towards rebuilding a relationship:

Look at problems that existed in the relationship before the affair happened. Affairs don’t happen in a vacuum and understanding the events and emotions that led up to the affair can help bring healing and potential restoration.
Communicate openly and honestly. This is key to rebuilding trust. Both partners must be willing to be open and honest about their feelings, thoughts, and actions.
Take responsibility. Accepting responsibility for what has happened is an important step in rebuilding trust. It shows that you are aware of the harm that has been caused and are willing to make amends.
Make amends. Apologise and take action to make things right. This might include things like therapy or counselling, or even something as simple as writing a letter of apology.
Be patient. Surviving an affair includes much rebuilding of trust and patience on both sides. It can be a bumpy emotional roller coaster ride during the post-affair recovery. Rebuilding trust takes time. Be patient with yourself and your partner as you work through the process.
Be open to forgiveness. Forgiveness is a vital step in rebuilding trust. If you were the one who was cheated on, it is normal to feel hurt and angry. Some relationships don’t survive after infidelity because the unfaithful partner’s cheating is used by the other person to keep punishing or controlling them. If you really want it to work, it is important to be open to the possibility of forgiving your partner, even if it takes time. At some point, you may need to let go of the past and focus on the future. This can be difficult, but it is necessary for rebuilding trust.
Seek professional help. A therapist or counsellor can help you work through the issues that have led to the breach of trust. They can also help you develop the skills you need to rebuild trust.
Trust is built over time through consistent behavior. You need to show up for your partner and stay true to your word by consistently doing what you say you will.
Be willing to compromise. Rebuilding trust requires a willingness to compromise. Be open to making changes in your relationship to make things right.
Remain committed and show your commitment by making time for each other, doing things together and spending quality time together. Put the phones away and actively listen to your partner.

Rebuilding trust is a process. It’s important to remember that it is not something that you can demand or force; trust is something that must be earned.

Are you having relationship problems and looking for a relationship counsellor? The EMH Mental Health Support Team offers free in-person counselling for gay, bi or other MSM individuals or couples in Johannesburg. To make an appointment or for more info, WhatsApp call or message 063 649 5116.

STAYING POSITIVE IN 2023

January 9, 2023 Riaan Norval News Comments Off

Wondering how to think positively in the New Year, despite the uncertainties that cloud your mind? Here are several things you can do to stay positive in 2023:

Practice gratitude:
Take a few minutes each day to think about the things you are thankful for. This can help you focus on the positive aspects of your life and cultivate an overall feeling of positivity.
Get enough sleep:
Getting enough sleep is important for your physical and mental health. Try to get at least 7-9 hours of sleep each night.
Exercise regularly:
Exercise has been shown to improve mood and reduce stress. Find an activity you enjoy, such as walking, running, dancing, or cycling, and make it a regular part of your routine.
Eat a healthy diet:
Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and other nutrient-dense foods can help you feel your best and keep your energy levels up.
Practice mindfulness:
Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention to your thoughts and feelings in the present moment, without judgment. It can help you stay focused and grounded and improve your overall sense of well-being.
Connect with others:
Humans are social creatures and having strong connections with others is important for our mental health. Make time to spend with friends and family, and seek out opportunities to connect with others who share your interests and values.
Give yourself permission to fail:
Allow yourself permission to fail from time to time without judgement. Everyone fails at some point, but it doesn’t have to be seen as indicative of failure overall; use it instead as an opportunity to learn.
Focus on progress rather than perfection:
You don’t need everything to be perfect all at once. Focus instead on celebrating even small successes which add up over time.
Prioritise ‘me-time’ every day:
Allow yourself enough time each day through activities such as meditation, mindfulness practices or simply enjoying silence; this helps maintain balance between mind, body and spirit.
Talk kindly with yourself:
Pay attention to any unhelpful thoughts going through your mind and question them if necessary! Be mindful of negative language and thoughts about yourself.
Embrace change:
Don’t be afraid to try something new. Making changes in our lives is often essential for personal growth.
Set boundaries:
Boundaries are an essential part of maintaining a sense of well-being and building a joyful life. Whether you want to establish boundaries in your personal or professional life, these work to protect you, whilst also helping you to establish your own identity. Without them, we can lose touch with our intuition and end up feeling burnt out and resentful.
Disconnect with a digital detox:
A digital detox is a period during which a person refrains from using electronic devices such as smartphones, computers, and tablets, to improve their overall well-being. A digital detox can help you reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep, and increase productivity. It can also be a way to reconnect with the world around you and to engage in activities that do not involve screens.
Acts of kindness:
Acts of kindness are actions taken to help or benefit someone else, often without expecting anything in return. These acts can be small, such as holding the door open for someone, or they can be more significant, like volunteering time or resources to a charitable cause. Performing acts of kindness has been shown to have many benefits, including improving mood and well-being, strengthening social connections, and creating a sense of purpose and meaning.
Immerse yourself in nature
After restrictions and lockdowns, embracing the great outdoors has become even more necessary, especially as time spent in nature can improve mood, boost resilience, and reduce stress. Moments of escapism can be found wherever you’re staying, be it a hike, a walk in a park or spending time in your garden.
Seek help and support:
Several factors contribute to higher rates of depression, suicide, and addiction in the LGBT community. One may be the discrimination and stigma that LGBT individuals often face. This can lead to feelings of isolation, low self-esteem, and a lack of acceptance, which can in turn contribute to poor mental health. Additionally, LGBT individuals may have a harder time accessing mental health care and may be less likely to seek help due to fear of discrimination. This year, don’t hesitate to seek out supportive mental health resources and don’t be afraid to ask for help!

EMH’s mental health support team offers free in-person, telephonic or online counselling (individual or couples), and referrals to gay, bi and other men who have sex with men in Johannesburg. If you’re experiencing feelings of depression, anxiety or dealing with trauma, relationship problems, or even stress about coming out, WhatsApp call or message 063 649 5116. (We can also refer you to other services outside the Johannesburg area.)

Festive season greetings and closing period

December 13, 2022 Luiz DeBarros News Comments Off

OUT LGBT Well-Being, Engage Men’s Health and our related services are taking a break for the festive season from Thursday 15 December 2022 until Tuesday 3 January 2023 (except the EMH office in NMB which will open on Monday 9 January 2023).

We wish our clients, funders, partners, friends and their loved ones a wonderful holiday season and a healthy, happy and prosperous New Year ahead.

Should you have an emergency, such as needing urgent PEP, please go to your local clinic or Dischem pharmacy.
If you need urgent counselling while we are closed, please contact LifeLine’s 24-Hour Counselling Line on 0861 322 322.
To reach the Suicide Crisis Helpline contact 0800 567 567 or the South African Depression and Anxiety Group’s Suicide Crisis Line on 0800 456 789.

Festive Season Pink Donation Drive

December 9, 2022 Riaan Norval News Comments Off

Support LGBTIQ people in need this festive season! We are collecting donated items for homeless, unemployed, and underprivileged LGBTIQ people in Gauteng.

You can drop off non-perishable food items, clothes (old and new), toiletries, and anything else you wish to donate at our donation boxes in Johannesburg and Pretoria from 23 November to 13 December 2022, at these locations:

OUT LGBT Well-Being
1310 Stanza Bopape Street, Colbyn, Pretoria
012 430 3272
Engage Men’s Health Melville
27 Boxes, 74, 4th Ave, Melville, 2092 (look for the signs)
010 500 0934

Please be so kind as to share this and help us reach as many people as possible. Thank you.

This campaign is a partnership between OUT LGBT Well-Being and Partners For Sustainable Development Solutions, an NGO that helps sex workers and LGBTIQ migrants with social issues and challenges.