Dr Christian Jessen

HIV and sexual health charity THT (Terrence Higgins Trust) has launched a new information pack aimed at gay men recently diagnosed with HIV. The pack, which is called ‘What Next?’, is a handy pocket sized guide and contains information on a selection of the support services that THT and other organisations provide.
 
In 2008, around 2,800 gay men were diagnosed with HIV in the UK. On receiving this diagnosis many people feel quite alone. To address this, the pack contains information on issues such as finding out you have HIV, ways of telling people that you are HIV positive, health, dealing with medical staff and information on HIV, treatment and transmission.
 
‘What Next?’ is also available for sexual health clinics to order free in bulk either with or without the inserts. The aim is to give GUM clinics the option to include information about their own services as well as others in their region – giving men an information pack that’s specific to their needs and their location.
 
THT is calling for GUMs and other sexual health clinics to stock the information packs so that as many men as possible can find out about the support that’s available for them, whether it’s counselling, advice about treatment, or simply being able to talk to someone for confidential advice and support.
 
Alan Wardle, Head of Health Promotion at Terrence Higgins Trust said:
“Being diagnosed with HIV can make people feel like they’re on an emotional roller coaster. Many people are left feeling quite alone or feel like they have hundreds of questions to ask. This pack aims to give some practical information that gay men might want after they’ve been diagnosed. Crucially it gives contact details of organisations that can offer support and information at a time when it might be most needed.”
 
Dr Christian Jessen presenter of Channel 4’s Embarrassing Illnesses said:
“The ‘What Next?’ information pack is an essential tool kit for any gay man who has recently been diagnosed with HIV. There are so many things to take on board when you’ve been diagnosed and sometimes you may not be able to take it all in initially. Having a pack that you can take away and read when you’re ready is a great idea.”

Men can pick up a 'What Next?' pack for free by contacting 020 7812 1783 or by emailing stephen.adair@tht.org.uk

For more information view:
www.tht.org.uk/whatnext