HIV testing doesn’t have to be a big deal. In fact, sometimes the easiest way to start a conversation about HIV is to make it feel completely normal.
That’s the idea behind TasCAHRD’s Happiness Is Vital: And so is your health campaign, running across October, November and December.
You might spot the campaign at TasCAHRD’s Hobart Needle and Syringe Program, where people can pick up a discreet yellow envelope marked only with a red smiley face. Inside is practical information about HIV, including early symptoms, ways HIV can be passed on, PrEP and PEP, and how to get tested.
There are also condoms, lube and a few lollies. The packs are designed for anyone and everyone – not just people who think HIV is relevant to them.
And that’s the point.
When HIV information is presented as something everyone can pick up, it can make conversations easier. People who might otherwise say, “I don’t need to know about that,” may be happy to take an envelope because it looks useful, friendly and completely non-judgemental.
It also means the information can travel. You can take a pack for yourself, give one to a friend, or simply keep the information somewhere you might need it later.
The campaign is about making HIV testing and prevention part of ordinary sexual health – something we can talk about without assumptions, awkwardness or needing to explain why we’re interested.
So if you see a yellow envelope with a red smiley face this spring, take one.
There might be something inside that’s useful for you – or someone you know.
