5 No-BS Ways to Care for Yourself When You’re Having a Herpes Outbreak
The most effective self-care isn’t the most expensive or glamorous, it’s what is sustainable and accessible to you in the moments you need it most.
Here are five practical strategies for managing your herpes outbreaks
1. Stop Pushing Through Pain: outbreaks can be painful and draining. If you’re in discomfort, consider taking a day for yourself. Press pause on any strenuous activities or plans.
2. Skip the Fancy Products and Trends: You don’t need $$$ products for effective self-care. Don’t let social media convince you that relief requires “cleansing” or other high-cost products and services.
3. Communicate Your Needs (& Set Boundaries): Let your partner know about your outbreak and how they can support you — maybe that’s by allowing you space to vent or just leaving you alone entirely. If you’re comfortable sharing with a friend, don’t be afraid to lean on them for support. People in your life who love YOU will want to support you, through the good and bad.
4. Eat What Feels Good: Ditch any “healing” diets you might be drawn to that claim to lessen your outbreaks. If you’re craving comfort food, have it. If you prefer salads and more veggies, that’s great, too. Do your best to listen to your body, stay hydrated, and try not to overthink or judge your food choices.
5. Be Honest About What You’re Feeling: No matter what work you’ve done to educate yourself about herpes and its stigma, some days might still suck. Don’t feel pressured to power through the more negative emotions. As my girl @theestallionsays, “Bad bitches have bad days, too.” 💁🏼♀️
I go over these tips and more in my latest Substack article, “5 No-BS Ways to Practice Self-Care During a Herpes Outbreak.” You can read this article for free on Substack 🫶🏻