They swapped it, looked over it with a microscope, and have been told that it’s more than likely that I have HSV aka herpes. They sent it to lab to confirm (within 4 business I’ll try and remember to update once confirmed).

My life has changed.

For those who’ve been diagnosed, how does one cope? I could do endless amount of research, etc. but I’m currently in a state of shock, numbness...

How does one tell their partner, who’s more so a fling/friends with benefits and likely to tell others?

How does one tell future potential partners?

I mean, I’ve had cold sores (basically the same) and I don’t go around/hangout with people as much when I have a flare up... What I find interesting is that - that’s more socially acceptable for some, like “oh, cold sore. Yeah, everyone has that... don’t pass it to me of course...” but as soon as HSV/herpes is mentioned, it’s like the whole body is contaminated and shuts people off/down. Soon the whole community may know and eventually they’ll start keeping their distance from you, basically for forever. I’m currently in a flare up right now and don’t want to be around people... but when I’m not... they might think it’s a forever flare up...

Not saying this has happened to me, yet...

But I feel alone and scared. Constantly overthinking. Anxiety, etc.

Help.