YPSILANTI –The numbers are daunting — 19,800 Michigan residents are currently living with HIV. Over 67 percent of these individuals live in southeast Michigan and 78 percent are male. The highest rates of new HIV diagnoses are occurring among young men, age 13 – 24 years old, according to the Michigan Department of Community Health. In a recent press release, HIV/AIDS Resource Center said, "It is clear that youth, especially young men, are not getting the information they need to keep HIV from becoming a part of their lives. In addition, national statistics indicate that one in five individuals with HIV is unaware of their infection."
In response, HARC recently announced a new program called Healthy Relationships. It is an interactive program that allows gay and bisexual men (and men who have sex with men), who are living with HIV, deal with some of the stress and fear that comes with this journey.
"Stigma, fear and stress are still stopping individuals from realizing joyful and fulfilling relationships with family, friends and sex partners. Participants will explore issues of sex, intimacy and sharing (or not) their HIV status in a safe and confidential setting," said the agency in a press release.
The next session begins on Aug. 5. For more information or to set up an interview contact Leon ([email protected]) or Anthony ([email protected]) or call 734-572-9355.
To learn more about your community's HIV/AIDS Resource Center, visit the web at http://www.hivaidsresource.org.
