Effects of Genital Herpes and those who study it

Quality of life issues:
Upon diagnosis of genital herpes, people can experience a number of negative feelings related to the condition. One study surveyed people about their first episode of genital herpes. Findings showed proportions of people who experienced:

depression 82%
fear of rejection 75%
feeling of isolation 69%
fear of being found out 55%
self-destructive feelings 28%
All of these proportions reduced over time.

The impact of genital herpes included:
partial or complete cessation of sexual activity
total or partial loss of interest in sex
decreased sexual pleasure
sex life more inhibited and less spontaneous
anxiety related to sexual desirability
increased masturbation
increased depression

In order to improve the well-being of people with herpes, a number of support groups exist, both physically and with a presence on the Internet.