Podcast Summary: SPFPP 354: Herpes and Suicide - Sexual Health is Mental Health

Something Positive for Positive People (SPFPP) is a podcast dedicated to supporting individuals navigating the stigma associated with herpes. In Episode 354, titled "Herpes and Suicide - Sexual Health is Mental Health," host Courtney Brain engages in a profound conversation with Dr. Drew Rabadu, a licensed clinical social worker specializing in helping women cope with herpes. Released on September 26, 2024, this episode delves deep into the intersection of a herpes diagnosis and mental health challenges, particularly suicidal ideation.

1. Introduction to Herpes Stigma and Mental Health

Courtney Brain opens the discussion by highlighting the central mission of SPFPP: stigma minimization. She emphasizes the organization's role in integrating the lived experiences of people with herpes into sexuality education to support STI prevention efforts.

Courtney Brain [00:02]: "The general consensus is that it comes down to stigma. Herpes stigma is very prevalent."

Dr. Drew Rabadu responds by introducing himself and outlining his focus on supporting women coping with herpes, noting the scarcity of therapists specializing in this area.

Drew Rabadu [03:25]: "I specialize in working with women coping with herpes, which there's not a ton of therapists out there that specifically focus in that."

2. Challenges with Herpes Diagnosis and Communication

The conversation shifts to the challenges patients face post-diagnosis, particularly the inadequate communication and education from healthcare professionals.

Courtney Brain [05:54]: "What they're putting in there about the work just got missed in that article."

Both Courtney and Drew discuss the confusion and inconsistency surrounding herpes testing and statistics, which exacerbates the stigma and emotional burden on those diagnosed.

Courtney Brain [07:11]: "If there were one test that was just called herpes test that was included on a standard STI panel... it should just say positive or negative."

3. The Link Between Herpes and Suicidal Ideation

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to exploring why a herpes diagnosis can lead individuals to contemplate suicide. Drew shares insights from his experience in community mental health, explaining that suicidal thoughts often stem from the immediate devastation and perceived lack of options following a diagnosis.

Drew Rabadu [13:55]: "Nobody wants to commit suicide because they want the easy way out or they're not... they feel like they don't have any other choice."

Courtney probes further into the psychological impact, touching on the unpredictability of sexuality post-diagnosis and how it disrupts individuals' self-perception and future plans.

Courtney Brain [35:02]: "The unpredictability, the uncertainty, the certainty of our sexuality prior to a diagnosis where our sexuality becomes unpredictable... contribute to someone having that psychological impact."

4. Support Systems and Therapeutic Interventions

Drew emphasizes the crucial role of support systems in preventing suicide ideation. He outlines practical steps and resources, such as hospitalization and mobile crisis teams, that can provide immediate assistance to those in distress.

Drew Rabadu [15:52]: "I think people are scared to go anywhere or call anywhere to get help and it is scary to do that."

Courtney and Drew discuss best practices for supporting someone struggling with suicidal thoughts, highlighting the importance of professional intervention over informal support.

Courtney Brain [15:52]: "If someone is struggling with suicide ideation, it's best that they go to the hospital. It's best that they call 911."

5. Differentiating Between Validation and Dismissal

A critical aspect of the conversation revolves around how healthcare professionals should communicate with patients post-diagnosis. Drew differentiates between validating a patient's feelings and dismissing their emotions, underscoring that acknowledgment without judgment is key to effective support.

Drew Rabadu [41:20]: "If you're telling somebody how they should feel, that is dismissing... If you tell somebody, listen, I know it's really hard... that's validation."

6. Empowerment Through Choice and Communication

Courtney elaborates on the empowerment that comes from choosing how to live post-diagnosis. She encourages listeners to reclaim their sense of agency by making conscious decisions about their relationships and seeking supportive communities.

Courtney Brain [35:38]: "Don't let this be because of fear and you feel like your options are now limited... get power back through choice."

Drew concurs, highlighting the opportunity for personal growth and redefining one's life blueprint after a significant diagnosis.

Drew Rabadu [44:55]: "There is an opportunity... to get clear on what kind of relationship you want."

7. Support Groups and Ongoing Resources

Dr. Drew outlines the support groups he facilitates, emphasizing their structured approach to providing a safe space for women to share and heal. He also mentions his online courses and certifications, including ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, as additional resources for those seeking help.

Drew Rabadu [29:37]: "I run a 12-week support group... structured groups that are small group of women for 12 weeks."

Drew Rabadu [48:25]: "I can coach people in other states... I also am certified in ketamine-assisted psychotherapy."

Courtney ensures listeners are aware of how to connect with Drew and access these support mechanisms.

Courtney Brain [51:48]: "If someone is struggling with suicide ideation, it's best that they go to the hospital... Connect with Drew through his website."

8. Conclusion and Call to Action

The episode concludes with Courtney summarizing the key takeaways and urging listeners to seek support, share their stories, and stay connected with SPFPP's resources.

Courtney Brain [53:16]: "Stay pleasure positive. I'm saying pleasure positive now instead of sex positive."

Drew reinforces the importance of community and professional support in overcoming the challenges associated with a herpes diagnosis.

Key Takeaways

• Herpes Stigma: The prevalent stigma surrounding herpes significantly impacts individuals' mental health and self-esteem.

• Mental Health Impact: A herpes diagnosis can lead to severe emotional distress, including suicidal ideation, due to perceived loss of control and uncertainty about the future.

• Support Systems: Effective support systems, including professional therapy and support groups, are essential in helping individuals navigate their diagnosis and mental health challenges.

• Communication: Validating patients' feelings without dismissal is crucial in providing meaningful support and encouraging positive mental health outcomes.

• Empowerment: Encouraging individuals to reclaim their agency through informed choices and supportive communities can mitigate the negative psychological impacts of a herpes diagnosis.

Resources Mentioned

• Dr. Drew Rabadu’s Support Groups:

  • Website: www.counning.com (Note: Replace with actual URL if different)
  • Upcoming Groups:
    • September 10th at 6 PM Eastern
    • October 9th at 6 PM Eastern
  • Contact: Via contact form on the website for participation in support groups and therapy services.

• Something Positive for Positive People:

  • Website: www.spfpp.org
  • Resources: Includes support groups for women, coaching options, access to medications and treatments, and survey data on herpes experiences.

This episode serves as a crucial resource for individuals diagnosed with herpes, shedding light on the profound mental health challenges they may face and the pathways to support and healing. Through honest dialogue and shared experiences, SPFPP fosters a community of understanding and resilience.