Men’s Herpes Stigma Support

Atomic Purpose: Navigating Stigma Toward Purpose

A men’s group for navigating herpes stigma and building identity from the inside out.

If you’re a man living with herpes and struggling to make sense of what that means for your dating life, confidence, or just your sense of self—this space is for you.

We’re not here to wallow or fix anything. We’re here to be real, connect with each other, and practice being present with what this experience brings up. Herpes stigma can feel isolating, but it doesn’t have to disconnect you from who you are.

This monthly group uses the atomic model as a tool to organize your experience—your purpose, values, habits, and actions—so you can stop drifting and start making more intentional moves in your life.

About the Group

  • Meets: 2nd Monday of each month

  • Time: 7:30pm Central (on Zoom)

  • Donation-Based: Pay what you can to support the space

  • Hosted by: Courtney Brame

You’ll get:

  • A consistent, confidential space to connect with other men who get it

  • Journal prompts that help you identify what matters to you and how to show up from that place

  • A framework to reconnect with yourself—not just your diagnosis

Your Atomic Profile (Example)

This is a tool we use to explore identity through a simple structure.

  • Proton (Purpose): To be a presence that chooses authenticity in the face of stigma

  • Neutron (Awareness): Tracks when you’re out of alignment and brings you back

  • Shell 1 (Values): Safety and freedom

  • Shell 2 (Practices): Rest, work, support, movement

  • Shell 3 (Actions): Dating, disclosure, learning, playing, healing

Your version might look different—and that’s the point.

Why Herpes Stigma?

For a lot of us, herpes was the first thing that cracked our armor. It brought up shame, fear, and silence. But it also gave us a reason to slow down and take a deeper look at who we are. This group gives you space to do that—without judgment, and with other men walking a similar path.

How to Join

  • Sign up for the newsletter to get reminders and Zoom links.

  • No commitment. Come when you’re ready.

  • No pressure. You don’t have to share if you’re not there yet.

  • And donate to keep up the space.