Indiana AIDS Fund

Living with HIV comes with unique challenges, and mental health struggles are often a significant part of the journey. 💔 The stigma, fear, and isolation that can accompany an HIV diagnosis can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. It’s important to recognize and address these struggles.

If you or someone you know is living with HIV, remember that support is available. Reach out to mental health professionals, support groups, and trusted loved ones. You are not alone. Let's break the stigma and foster a supportive community where everyone can thrive.

Check out more resources and identify ways to get help here: https://www.hiv.gov/hiv-basics/staying-in-hiv-care/other-related-health-issues/mental-health

Let's set the record straight ✅: HIV doesn't discriminate based on race, gender, or s*xual orientation. It's not just a 'gay disease' or confined to certain groups. Understanding and education are key to dispelling myths and supporting everyone affected. Spread awareness, not misinformation.

We can break the silence and spread compassion, not stigma, by normalizing HIV testing. Together, let's end HIV stigma and support each other with kindness and understanding. ❤️‍🩹

Find a test near you 👉 https://gettested.cdc.gov/

In Indiana alone,
there are approximately
40,000 individuals living
with Hepatitis C.

👍 Great strides are being made in HIV research! The HOPE Act enables people living with HIV to donate organs to others living with HIV, potentially saving countless lives. This groundbreaking development emphasizes the importance of the PLWH community being empowered to preserve itself through health equity.

Learn more about this life-changing initiative and its impact on the HIV community by visiting – https://www.thebody.com/article/hope-act-hiv-organ-donation-when-fully-realized

🏥 It's National Health Center Week! 🎉 Let's celebrate the incredible work of health centers that provide quality care to our communities. They are the heartbeat of our healthcare system.

For more information, please visit: https://www.nachc.org/events/national-health-center-week/

Every hour, approximately 30 young people aged 15-24 are newly diagnosed with HIV worldwide

🩺 Did you know HIV can be transmitted through several routes? Understanding these can help protect yourself and others. Here's what you need to know:

1️⃣ Unprotected Sexual Contact: HIV can be spread through vaginal, a**l, or oral s*x without a condom or preventive medication.
2️⃣ Sharing Needles: Using shared needles or syringes can transmit the virus.
3️⃣ Blood Transfusions: Although rare in countries with rigorous screening, it's still a possible route.
4️⃣ Mother-to-Child: HIV can be passed from mother to baby during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.
5️⃣ Contact with Blood: Direct contact with HIV-infected blood through cuts or sores.

Protect yourself by practicing safe s*x, never sharing needles, and getting regularly tested. Awareness is key! 🧠💡

As if you'd miss out on this opportunity 💁‍♀️

Kan-Kan Cinema & Restaurant is partnering with Damien Center to raise money for Indiana AIDS Walk by showing Clueless 🤩

Get your tickets - you totally don't want to miss it 👉 https://www.goelevent.com/Kan-KanCinemaandBrasserie/e/CLUELESS1995

Stop totally bugging and get tickets to see CLUELESS with us and the Damien Center to benefit the Indiana Aids Walk! There'll be a costume contest before the show, so put on your most Clueless-ful fits and join in on the fun.

August 1 at 7 p.m.: Link in bio for tickets

Damien Center Indiana AIDS Walk

The DEFA funds are a lifeline for those living with HIV/AIDS, offering essential support for medical care, housing, utilities, and more during times of crisis. Every contribution helps ensure that individuals can access the resources they need to live healthier, more stable lives.

Learn more about how you can make a difference:

HIV/AIDS Emergency Assistance | The Health Foundation of Greater Indianapolis | THFGI The Health Foundation of Greater Indianapolis, Inc. is a private foundation that supports health-related projects and organizations that serve the community’s most vulnerable citizens.

Join us on World Hepatitis Day to raise awareness and support the fight against hepatitis! Together, we can educate, prevent, and eliminate hepatitis worldwide. 🌍💛

Find a Hep C testing site near you: https://www.connecttocure.org/connect/

📢 Help change the HIV stats in Indiana! Spread awareness, get tested, and protect yourself. PrEP is safe, affordable, and 99% effective at reducing the risk of contracting HIV.

Find PrEP near you ➡️ https://prepdaily.org/

💚Struggling with mental health? Here are some tips:

🩺 Talk to a Provider: Get help from a mental health professional.
🤝 Join a Support Group: Share experiences in a safe space online or in person.
🧠 Seek Therapy: There are several types of therapy options to try out.
🧘‍♀️ Relax: Practice meditation, yoga, or deep breathing.
📞 Reach Out: Call or text 988, chat at 988lifeline.org, or talk to a friend.

988 Su***de & Crisis Lifeline We can all help prevent su***de. The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States.

HIV stigma hurts. It creates barriers for people seeking testing and treatment, preventing them from getting the care they need. Let's break the stigma and support those affected. Everyone deserves access to health and hope. 💪❤️

Observed annually on July 21st, this day is dedicated to reflection, education, and action against HIV stigma.

On this important day, Jeanne White-Ginder, mother of Ryan White, joined voices with HMM-Indiana to call on Indiana legislators to reform Indiana's HIV Criminal Laws. Jeanne continues her son's legacy of advocacy to end HIV stigma and discrimination.

Let's honor Ryan's legacy by fighting stigma and supporting reforms for a more just and compassionate future. 💪❤️

Jeanne's full statement 👉 https://hivmodernizationmovement.org/jeanne-white-ginder/

Ryan White's Mom Calls on Legislators to Reform Indiana's HIV Criminal Laws - HIV Modernization Movement – Photo Courtesy of HMM-Indiana After decades of breakthroughs in HIV science and medicine, we now have the tools to end the HIV epidemic, but outdated and stigmatizing HIV criminal laws are holding us back. My name is Jeanne White-Ginder. I’m the mother of Ryan White, who was born with hemophil...

🌟 Your support changes lives! 🌟 Help us continue our mission to combat HIV/AIDS and support those affected. Every donation makes a difference. Together, we can make a positive impact!

Donate today >> www.indianaaidswalk.org

Spread the word: U=U, Undetectable=Untransmittable! 💙🌍

This medical concept confirms that those with an undetectable viral load can't transmit HIV. Learn more about U=U and its role in HIV prevention here 👉 https://prepdaily.org/what-does-uu-mean-in-relation-to-hiv-prevention/

What Does U=U Mean in Relation to HIV Prevention? - PrEP Daily : To protect yourself or your partner from HIV transmission, just remember U=U. In this post, we’ll explain this phrase and what it means for you.

1 in 5 people in the U.S. living with HIV don’t know it.

Getting tested is the only way for you to know your status. 📋✅

According to the WHO, there are 39 million people worldwide living with HIV. Let’s come together to raise awareness, support those affected, and work together towards a future free from HIV stigma and discrimination.

Join Us for the "Pride in Mind" Roundtable! 🧠🌈

We're thrilled to announce our new aging LGBTQ+ program in partnership with the Alzheimer's Association Greater Indiana Chapter ! Our first event is later this month 👇

📅 Date: July 20th
📍 Location: Bloomington, IN
🎟️ Cost: Free!

"Pride in Mind" is an initiative dedicated to supporting LGBTQ+ individuals and families impacted by Alzheimer's disease. This roundtable discussion offers a chance to connect with resources, share experiences, and build a supportive network.

Register Here 👉 https://www.eventbrite.com/e/pride-in-mind-a-roundtable-discussion-tickets-907572583027

The longest-running HIV study in the U.S. - now 40 years long - has provided invaluable insights into both untreated and treated HIV, helping shape better outcomes for all. Learn more: https://www.thebody.com/article/longest-running-hiv-study-us-40th-anniversary

Here's to the scientists, participants, and everyone involved in this incredible journey.

The Longest-Running HIV Study in the U.S. Is Celebrating Its 40th Anniversary The combined MACS and WIHS cohort has yielded innumerable insights about the outcomes of both untreated and treated HIV in both men and women.

🚫 Myth: HIV only affects certain s*xual orientations
✅ Fact: HIV can impact anyone

Practicing safe s*x is crucial for those living with HIV. Here are 5 essential ways to protect yourself and your partners:

1️⃣ Use condoms consistently and correctly.
2️⃣ Consider PrEP for HIV-negative partners.
3️⃣ Take Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) as prescribed.
4️⃣ Get tested regularly and consult with your doctor.
5️⃣ Maintain open communication and consent.

Together, we can reduce the risk of transmission and support each other’s health. 💙

Happy 4th of July, everyone! Let's celebrate the land of the free and the home of the brave. 🎆❤️🤍💙

Hepatitis C poses a silent threat that can impact anyone, regardless of age or lifestyle. Testing isn't just for high-risk individuals—it's a proactive measure to protect your well-being

Why should you consider testing?

🔍 Early Detection: Identifying hepatitis C early enables prompt treatment and improves outcomes.

🤫Silent Infection: Many individuals with hepatitis C remain asymptomatic until the disease has progressed.

☮️Peace of Mind: Knowing your status empowers you to make informed decisions about your health.

Don't delay—take charge of your health today. Find a testing site near you ➡️ https://www.connecttocure.org/connect/

Connect | Connect to Cure

Prioritizing mental health for all communities. 🧠✨ This Minority Mental Health Awareness Month, let's break the stigma, share our stories, and support one another. Your mind matters. 💚

🩺 Today is National HIV Testing Day! Knowing your status is crucial for your health and the health of others. Get tested, stay informed, and take control of your health. Find a testing site near you and make a difference for your health! ❤️

Being a supportive ally when someone discloses their HIV status is crucial. Understanding the right and wrong responses can make all the difference. Educate yourself, show empathy, and help break down the stigma surrounding HIV. ❤️