HIV Education

Since the AIDS epidemic of the 1980s, there has been a well-established correlation between certain aspects of addiction and the development of HIV and AIDS. There are many facets of HIV that can affect recovery from drugs and alcohol and vice versa. At The Source, we focus on our patients as a whole and are aware of each unique situation. HIV prevention is an essential part of substance abuse treatment, but we go above prevention and are aware of the physical and mental complications that can occur for someone with both HIV/AIDS and a substance use disorder.

Intravenous drug use has long been known as a risk factor for contracting and transmitting HIV. Drug and alcohol use also lowers inhibitions which can lead to unsafe or risky sexual behavior, like unprotected sex. Early intervention is the first step for both preventing the spread of HIV and treating it. Education surrounding HIV in a recovery setting is both about the knowledge of how addiction can lead to exposure and how it can make the infection worse. It is also common for someone who is recently diagnosed with HIV to develop a substance use disorder.

Inclusive Care at The Source

With more than 1 million people living with HIV in the US, it is important to share awareness on prevention and treatment. The focus is on encouraging testing which can not only stop the spread to others but also earlier medical involvement in the course of the disease helps ensure better treatment outcomes in the long run. It is also essential to stress the importance of safe sexual practices and how being under the influence can increase the risk of HIV exposure.

Providing a holistic program means caring about our client’s general health. HIV and AIDS cause many physical and mental issues, like low energy levels, depression, and decreased immune system function. Substance use can accelerate disease progression by harming a person’s overall health and hindering how well HIV medications work. Educating our clients on good healthy habits like exercise, nutrition, and mental health, can help ensure they have the best chance of managing the disease successfully.

It is also imperative to ensure clients who are HIV positive do not feel judged while in treatment.  We are dedicated to removing the stigmas surrounding HIV/AIDS, including reducing feelings of guilt and shame. People living with both HIV/AIDS and a substance use disorder should receive recovery treatment as soon as possible. To avoid any hesitation in receiving care, we promise a compassionate and inclusive environment to all.
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We truly believe that each client is an individual with unique life circumstances. We help the client recognize and correct the dysfunctional behavior patterns that have overtaken their existence and ultimately heal the pain of the past, so they can lead a healthy, addiction-free life.