Stigma

‘Stigma’ means shame, fear and disgrace.  Stigma is what makes people afraid to be who they are. It also makes people afraid to get help when they need it.  Stigma is caused by ignorance and unnecessary criticism. Young Heroes need to do what they can to get rid of stigma. When others say mean things about HIV-positive people, you can speak up and correct them. Stigma also causes young people to be afraid to ask questions about sex, condoms, HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. This is bad because many young people are already having sex. We can all be Young Heroes if we ask questions that will help us to stay healthy.