Help for HIV and Hepatitis

HIV, Hepatitis B & Hepatitis C, can be difficult to deal with as the public perception of the cause, transmission and changes to ones lifestlye, are often blurred.

What is a Blood Borne virus (BBV)

A BBV is a virus that some people carry in their blood. The HIV, Hepatitis B & Hepatitis C viruses are BBVs.

How can HIV, Hepatitis be caught ?

BBVs, are not caught in the same way other viruses, such as the common cold or flu.

What is HIV ?

HIV, or to give it its full name 'Human Immunodeficiency Virus', is a virus that can result in a condition that destroys the cells that help your body fight off infection. As HIV is defined as a BBV it will not only affect someone physically, but also socially, mentally and emotionally.

What is Hepatitis ?

Hepatitis is a disease that infects the liver. There are several types of hepatitis, which are identified by a letter: e.g. Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C. As everyone is unique, different bodies react in different ways to the effects of the Hepatitis virus. However, as Hep B & Hep C are defined as a BBV, both the physical effects of the illness and the mental and emotional trauma that can occur when living with such an illness also need to be supported.

Living with a BBV

The most difficult thing you may ever have to do is tell someone you have a life threatening condition; It is now looked upon as a legal requirement by the UK Health & Safety Executive to inform employers and those around you, that you have a BBV. To do this you will need emotional support to help you cope with your reactions and how to deal with the reactions of others.

Steven James Counselling have a team of specialist therapists trained to work with these difficult situations and also have very close links with the specialist teams at Bournemouth and Poole hospitals that are working with BBVs.

We can help you come to terms with having a Blood Borne Virus, all you need to do is just click here to email us, or telephone us to make an appointment in complete confidentiality. You can discuss your issues with us in peaceful and relaxing surroundings at our therapy rooms.

Although we are based in Poole, we also cover the Bournemouth, Ringwood, Wimborne, Ferndown, New Milton, West Moors and the Purbeck areas.