The Whitsdom Press

Tag: Health and Wellness

  • The Truth About STD Rates in Houston

    THE STD AND HIV RATE IN HOUSTON IS AS HIGH AS RENT RIGHT NOW!

    Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), including HIV and AIDS, remain a major health concern in Houston. Harris County consistently reports rates higher than the Texas and national averages. This article breaks down the facts in simple, clear language. We are busting myths and dropping strong stats.

    How Bad Is the STD Situation in Houston?

    According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and local health reports, Houston ranks among the top U.S. cities for STD rates. Harris County, which includes Houston, has consistently reported:

    • Chlamydia: Over 40,000 cases reported in 2022.
    • Gonorrhea: Over 14,000 cases in 2022.
    • Syphilis: Around 3,000 cases reported in 2022, with sharp increases in congenital syphilis (passed from mother to baby).
    • HIV: Nearly 739 new diagnoses in 2022, higher than most Texas counties.

    For comparison, the rate of chlamydia in Houston is about 1.5 times higher than the Texas state average. The rate of gonorrhea is almost double the national average.

    đź“Š Up-to-Date HIV & AIDS Numbers in Houston

    According to the Houston Eligible Metropolitan Area data for 2022:

    • 1,413 new HIV diagnoses were reported in the Houston area in 2022. This is a 5% increase from 2021. Of these diagnoses, 90% were residents of Houston/Harris County.
    • 1,277 of these diagnoses were confirmed in Harris County specifically—that is a rate of 26.4 new HIV cases per 100,000 people
    • There were 287 new AIDS diagnoses (stage-3 HIV) in 2022 in Harris County, a rate of 5.9 per 100,000
    • By the end of 2022, approximately 33,397 people were living with HIV (PLWH) in the Houston EMA—about 30,425 of them in Harris County, with a prevalence rate of 630 per 100,000 residents
    • In comparison, the national rate of new HIV diagnoses is around 13 per 100,000, so Houston/Harris County has more than double that rate
    • Source: Houston Health Department’s 2024 Epidemiologic Supplement for HIV Prevention and Care Services Planning Report

    Note: the current population in Houston is 2.39 million as of 2024.

    Here’s a heat-map-style image showing ZIP codes in Harris County (Houston) with the highest rates of HIV and other STIs. Darker areas highlight neighborhoods like 77002 (Downtown), 77006 (Montrose), 77021 (Southeast Houston), and 77026 (Kashmere Gardens)—regions with the most elevated infection rates. Source: KPRC Click2Houston

    Why Are Rates Rising?

    Several reasons contribute to Houston’s high STD rates:

    • Lack of regular testing – Many people don’t know they are infected. During COVID, many people missed checkups, so infections went undetected.
    • Stigma and fear – Some avoid clinics because they are embarrassed.
    • Limited access to healthcare – Not everyone has affordable care.
    • Rapid population growth – More people, more risk of spread.

    🔍 What Are Common Myths About HIV & STDs?

    Myth #1: “HIV is always obvious or shows early symptoms.”
    👉 In reality, many people living with HIV don’t feel or look sick for years.

    Myth #2: “Only certain races or groups get HIV.”
    👉 Everyone is at risk. In Houston, Hispanic/Latinx and Black communities are most affected, but HIV impacts all groups

    Myth #3: “Getting tested is embarrassing or unnecessary.”
    👉 Testing is confidential, often free, and the best way to find infection early—even before you have symptoms.

    Myth #4: “If I take PrEP, I don’t need to worry.”
    👉 PrEP helps prevent HIV but doesn’t protect against other STDs like syphilis or chlamydia. Regular testing is still important.

    âś… Prevention & Public Health Efforts

    • Free or low-cost testing available through Houston Health Department, Harris County Public Health, and Legacy Community Health.
    • Mobile clinics and outreach in high-risk ZIP codes (e.g. Sunnyside, Fifth Ward, South Park) help reach underserved communities
    • Services offered include PrEP, DoxyPEP, Rapid Start ART, and prenatal HIV care (risk of mother-to-child transmission reduced to under 1%
    • Rates of care retention and viral suppression: Under 77% of HIV-positive people receive some care, 55% stay in care, and 62% achieve viral suppression (undetectable and can’t pass to another person)

    Final Takeaway

    Houston has twice the U.S. average rate of new HIV diagnoses. Please get tested regularly, use protection, and know your options for treatment and prevention so you can stay safe. Stop playing with your lives out here.

    🗣️📢BRING BACK SEX EDUCATION SINCE WE ARE BRINGING BACK THE BIBLE INTO SCHOOLS!

    Watch this video below FOR AWARENESS.

    Check out this video compilation of TikTok videos about Houston’s STD problem from YouTube channel @whatitlooklike_tv

  • Managing Back-to-School Anxiety: Tips for Emotional Well-being

    As the back-to-school season approaches, it’s important to rank mental health and wellness. The excitement of a new school year often comes hand in hand with anxiety, stress, and the need for balance. Here’s how you can support your well-being as you navigate this transition.

    Managing Back-to-School Anxiety

    It’s natural to feel a mix of emotions when school starts—excitement, anticipation, and sometimes anxiety. Here are a few tips to help manage these feelings:

    1. Acknowledge Your Feelings: It’s okay to feel anxious. Talk about your feelings with someone you trust, like a friend, family member, or school counselor. Sometimes, just voicing your concerns can make them feel more manageable.
    2. Prepare Ahead: Familiarize yourself with your schedule, classrooms, and teachers before the first day. Knowing what to expect can reduce uncertainty and help you feel more in control.
    3. Practice Relaxation Techniques: Breathing exercises, meditation, or even simple stretching can help calm your mind and body. Set aside a few minutes each day to practice these techniques.
    4. Focus on the Positives: Shift your mindset by thinking about what you’re looking send to. This includes reconnecting with friends, learning something new, or joining a club. Focusing on the positive aspects can help reduce anxiety.

    Tips for Maintaining a Healthy School-Life Balance

    Balancing school responsibilities with personal time is essential for your mental and emotional health. Here are some strategies to help you keep this balance:

    1. Create a Routine: Establishing a daily routine can give structure and predictability. Include time for homework, extracurricular activities, relaxation, and sleep.
    2. Rank Your Tasks: Use a planner or digital tool to organize your tasks. Break down big projects into smaller, manageable steps, and tackle them one at a time. Prioritizing your work can help reduce feelings of being overwhelmed.
    3. Set Boundaries: It’s important to set limits on how much time you spend on schoolwork. Appoint specific times for study and relaxation. This can help prevent burnout and make sure you have time for hobbies, socializing, and self-care.
    4. Stay Active: Physical activity is a great way to relieve stress and boost your mood. Whether it’s a sport, dance, or a simple walk, staying active can improve your overall well-being.
    5. Reach Out for Support: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Teachers, counselors, and family members can offer support and guidance.

    The Importance of Sleep for Academic Success

    Sleep is often overlooked, but it plays a crucial role in your academic performance and overall health. Here’s why sleep should be a top priority:

    1. Cognitive Role: Adequate sleep is essential for memory retention, problem-solving, and concentration. A well-rested brain is more effective at processing information and recalling it during tests or class discussions.
    2. Emotional Regulation: Lack of sleep can lead to irritability, mood swings, and difficulty managing stress. Ensuring you get enough rest helps you stay emotionally balanced and better equipped to handle challenges.
    3. Physical Health: Sleep is vital for physical health, including growth and immune role. It helps your body recover from daily activities and strengthens your ability to fight off illnesses.
    4. Sleep Hygiene Tips:
      • Set a Consistent Sleep Schedule: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends.
      • Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine: Wind down with calming activities like reading or listening to music.
      • Limit Screen Time: Avoid screens at least an hour before bed. The blue light can interfere with your ability to fall asleep.

    As you step into this new school year, remember to take care of your mental health and wellness. These are just as important as your academic goals. By managing anxiety, maintaining balance, and prioritizing sleep, you’re setting yourself up for a successful and fulfilling year ahead.