Myth: You can get HIV from kissing or sharing food.

Fact: HIV is not spread through casual contact like kissing, hugging, or sharing food. It’s mainly transmitted through unprotected sex or sharing needles.

Myth: HIV only affects certain groups of people.

Fact: HIV can affect anyone, regardless of their race, gender, or sexual orientation. It’s important for everyone to protect themselves and get tested regularly.

Myth: You can tell if someone has HIV just by looking at them.

Fact: You can’t tell if someone has HIV just by looking at them.  Many people with HIV look healthy and don’t show any symptoms for 10 or more years.

Myth: There is no treatment for HIV.

Fact: While there’s no cure, there are treatments available that can help people with HIV live long and healthy lives. These treatments can also help prevent HIV and reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to others.

One of the best things you can do is to know your status – that’s the first step in taking charge of your health.  ÐÔÉ«Ìà offers free, confidential HIV and STI testing in our clinics across the country.  Our staff is knowledgeable, kind, and treats every person who walks through the door with the utmost dignity and respect.  Call today to schedule your free HIV or STI test.  We are here for you!

Greek Yogurt: Creamy and full of good bacteria for your gut, Greek yogurt is a great source of protein.

Eggs: Whether boiled, scrambled, or in an omelet, eggs are always a solid source of protein.

Chicken Breast: Grilled or baked, chicken breast is a lean protein powerhouse.

Beans: Black beans, kidney beans, and chickpeas are excellent plant-based protein options.

Quinoa: This ancient grain is not only high in protein but also rich in fiber and nutrients.

Salmon: High in omega-3 fatty acids that are good for you, salmon is a healthy protein choice.

Tofu: Made from soybeans, tofu is a great vegetarian protein option.

Cottage Cheese: Low in fat and high in protein, cottage cheese is a nutritious snack.

Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds are tasty and high in protein.

Lean Beef: Choose lean cuts like sirloin or tenderloin for a protein-packed meal.

Getting enough protein in your diet can help you feel your best.  Being sure to drink enough water each day too, as that is an important part of good health.  The ÐÔÉ«Ìà food pantry staff are available to answer questions and help you find the kinds of food that will help you feel good.  Stop by the pantry anytime!  Our knowledgeable staff are here for you.

A Safe Space to Express Yourself: Talk therapy provides a safe and confidential place for you to talk about your thoughts and feelings with a professional.  You can share what’s on your mind and what you’re going through, or share your worries or fears, all without the risk of being judged.

Understanding Your Emotions: Sometimes it’s hard to understand why we feel a certain way. A therapist can help you explore your emotions, identify patterns, and help make sense of your feelings and behavior.

Learn Ways to Cope: Talk therapy can give you coping strategies to use when life gets hard. Whether it’s stress from work, school, relationships or other pressures, therapy can teach you healthy ways to manage stress and help you feel better.

Building Self-Esteem: Talk therapy can boost your self-esteem and confidence. By learning more about yourself and working through issues, you can develop a sense of pride and acceptance for who you are.

Improving Relationships: Communication is the key to healthy relationships. Talk therapy can improve your communication skills, helping you to express your needs and understand others better.

Managing Mental Health Conditions: Talk therapy can be helpful in treating mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and more. Sometimes therapy is combined with other treatments such as medication, and can provide lasting, long-term benefits. Your doctor can help determine what treatment is right for you.

A Supportive Guide: Your therapist is like a supportive guide on your journey to better mental health. They listen, provide guidance and empower you to make positive changes in your life.

Remember, it’s okay to ask for help when you need it.  If you would like to learn more about talk therapy, ask your ÐÔÉ«Ìà provider for more information.  We are here for you and want you to feel good, always!

Oatmeal. Starting your day with a bowl of oatmeal can boost serotonin levels, which is a feel-good hormone that helps calm your mind.

Bananas. Full of potassium and magnesium, bananas can help regulate blood pressure and help ease feelings of tension.

Avocado. Rich in healthy fats, avocados help keep stress hormones in check.

Berries. Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are full of antioxidants that help fight stress and protect your brain.

Spinach. This leafy green is full of magnesium, which can reduce anxiety and improve your mood.

Salmon. Healthy omega-3 fatty acids found in salmon can reduce inflammation in your brain and promote a calm, focused mind.

Dark Chocolate. Eating a small piece of dark chocolate is good for you, making you feel happier and less stressed.

Nuts. Almonds, walnuts, and pistachios are full of vitamins and mineral that support brain health.

Herbal Tea. Sipping on a cup of non-caffeinated herbal tea can have a soothing effect on your nerves, helping you unwind after a long day.

Greek Yogurt. High in protein and probiotics, Greek yogurt can boost your mood and gut health. Try to pick one that without added sugar for the most benefits.

By adding these foods to your diet, you can greatly improve the way you feel. It’s the little choices that we make each day that can have a big impact on our overall health and wellbeing. If you need more ideas on healthy foods, ask your ÐÔÉ«Ìà care team or visit our food pantry. We are here for you and want you to feel good, always!