Why Regular STD/STI Testing Matters for Your Health

Regular STD testing matters for overall health.

Over the last decade, awareness campaigns have led to more and more people in Orange County and across the country getting regular sexually transmitted disease (STD) testing, also known as sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing. Access to inclusive, LGBTQ+-friendly medical clinics with confidential, judgment-free care drove this increase. And while this is good news to be celebrated, there is still much work to be done, especially in reaching younger people. This is a population that specifically needs to understand why regular STD testing matters for their health.

Why Is Regular STD Testing Important for Your Health?

Taking care of your health is always important, and access to treatment centers that offer education and support in addition to stigma-free care leads to better health outcomes. When it comes to sexually transmitted diseases, young adults aged 15–24 account for almost half of new infections. This makes education about sexual health, including the importance of regular STD testing, a priority. Below are a few reasons why testing continues to matter for personal and public health.

Not All STDs Have Visible Symptoms

You may wonder when to see a healthcare provider for STD/STI symptoms, but understand that not all infections have symptoms. When you are unaware of their presence, these asymptomatic illnesses can affect you in the long term. Infections can cause damage to organs, affect fertility, and even cognition. No matter how you feel physically, regular STD testing ensures you know what’s happening, and can begin treatment ASAP when it’s needed.

Testing Reduces Transmission Risks

Sex should be consensual, enjoyable and healthy for the parties involved. Regular STD testing ensures that you know what’s going on in your body. If you are diagnosed with an STD, and since there are multiple types of infections, there are specific interventions to keep you healthy. Regular testing also means you can enjoy sex with peace of mind, not having to worry that you may pass an infection to your partner(s).

Early Detection Leads to Better Health

STDs occur and spread most often through asymptomatic individuals in unprotected sex acts or due to prophylactic failure. And unfortunately, because of stigma, there’s an abundance of misinformation about how they are contracted and who spreads them. STDs can affect anyone who is sexually active, no matter their age or whether they are in a committed relationship or not. Regular STD testing ensures early detection, and the sooner you know, the better for your health. There’s no need to feel shame when incredible treatment options are readily available.

Availability of Treatment

Access to treatment is important to the health of individuals and communities. Over the past 20 years, significant breakthroughs have occurred in HIV treatment and other STD testing and treatment that have led to better outcomes for many people. This includes the ability to have at-home testing. But still, not everyone knows about these advancements. Campaigns like “GYT: Get Yourself Tested” (aimed at adolescents and young adults) let people know that regular STD testing is part of a satisfying and healthy sex life.

Get Confidential, Affordable STD Testing in Orange County

Radiant Health Centers provides STD testing to residents of Irvine, Santa Ana and greater Orange County. Our affordable medical clinic, behavioral health services and social services are available to everyone looking to live a healthy life. Upon request, we can schedule testing booths at community events and at local businesses. Call us today at (949) 809-5700, or request an appointment for confidential care.

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Support Youth Mental Health During Bullying Prevention Month

Supporting youth mental health in Bullying Prevention Month.

Did you know that bullying affects an estimated 19.2% American children and teens? And the bullying is highly concentrated among girls and LGBTQ+ youth, making LGBTQ+-friendly counseling extremely important for the overall health and development of local youth. Each year, October is set aside as Bullying Prevention Month to bring attention to this issue and highlight the best ways to support young people and their mental health.

Ways to Support Youth Mental Health in the Face of Bullying

It’s probably no surprise that LGBTQ+ youth are more likely to face bullying than their counterparts. When school doesn’t feel safe and there is concern that family or friends may not accept them, it can take a severe toll on the mental health of young people. But there are affirming and beneficial behavioral health services to help teens and young adults find hope in a world where they have been bullied or felt cast aside. The following are key ways to support youth mental health this month and beyond.

Judgement-Free Communication

Parents, caretakers and trusted figures have the ability to greatly help young people. When a young person is bullied, especially for who they are, it can be difficult for them to talk about. Having regular, open communication with the young people in your life can help them open up about their concerns, from school work to talking about sex. It’s about active listening, being accepting, and offering understanding much more than it is about having the “right answers.” When young people are comfortable, they’re more likely to speak openly about their concerns, which leads to improvements in many areas, including mental health outcomes.

Teach Them Coping Skills Offline

Social media and the 24-hour news and entertainment cycle have compounded the typical developmental stress of the teen years. Since 2020, the rates of anxiety and depression among teens have increased, and sometimes it seems like there’s no way to change the situation.

However, there are many small, everyday things that can be done to help. Teaching teens to limit both their texting and time spent online is a big one! Encouraging them to explore their interests in the real world and working with them on their hobbies can show acceptance and build bonds. Going for walks, swimming, reading, and meditation are all excellent ways to provide balance and improve mental health.

Utilize Available Resources

Parents, caretakers, educators and anyone involved in the lives of children, teens and young adults can find helpful resources on trusted outlets. From StopBullying.gov to campaigns from StompOutBullying.org, you can find out how to talk to young people about self-kindness, acceptance, empathy, and the beauty of differences. These sites also share specific ways to prevent bullying, and show how kids can stand up for themselves and others.

In addition, such resources provide information on how to find mental health services for those affected by bullying, along with other issues in life. Plus, there are organizations committed to being safe spaces specifically for LGBTQ+ youth. Radiant Health Centers has an LGBTQ+ Youth Mentorship Program to provide access to holistic medical and mental health care. Access to programs like this provide support and can also save young people’s lives.

Get Compassionate Youth Mental Care in Orange County

Radiant Health Centers is part of the Orange County community. We provide medical care, behavioral care, and social services in a kind, inclusive, judgement-free atmosphere. Our programs cater to youth and adults from every community. Request your appointment or call us at (949) 809-5700 to get help.

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How AIDS Walks Make a Difference in the Fight Against AIDS

Orange County AIDS Walk.

On October 18, 2025, the Orange County community will gather for the final AIDS Walk 2025 at Orange Coast College. Celebrating its 40th anniversary, the event unites individuals, families, and teams in a vital show of solidarity. For those attending, it is an important opportunity to honor those lost to AIDS, support people living with HIV today, and raise funds for prevention and care services. If you haven’t yet registered, please do so today for this historic event.

Orange County United at AIDS Walk 2025

Since 1985, AIDS Walk has brought people together in a spirit of community, compassion, courage, and progress in the fight against HIV/AIDS. What began as a response to the AIDS crisis has grown into a community-driven tradition that raises vital funds for healthcare, prevention, housing, and support services.

Gia Gunn television personality advocate.

This year’s 40th anniversary will feature a sunset walk, live entertainment, a resource fair, food trucks, and even a cutest dog contest. Adding to the celebration, Gia Gunn, television personality and advocate who appeared on Season 6 of RuPaul’s Drag Race, will serve as Mistress of Ceremonies and bring her passion for trans visibility and LGBTQ+ rights to the stage.

Why Raising Awareness of HIV/AIDS Matters

By participating, donating or sponsoring a team, individuals and organizations can stand together and raise money to find a cure. The most recent CDC data highlights the importance of affirming and accessible care, with an estimated 158,249 Americans (around 13% of all people living with HIV) remaining undiagnosed. Knowing your HIV status is one of the most powerful ways to contribute to ending the epidemic, as it connects patients to treatment and reduces transmission.

Funding Cuts Could Reverse HIV Prevention Gains

This year’s walk also takes place against a backdrop of uncertainty over HIV funding in the United States and around the world. Proposed budget cancellations and foreign aid pauses have raised serious concerns for long-standing programs that millions rely on.

New research from Emory University demonstrates the risks, warning that even modest reductions in HIV prevention funding could have severe consequences. A recent study published in JAMA Network Open found that a 3.3% annual decrease in PrEP coverage over the next decade would lead to more than 8,600 preventable HIV infections and $3.6 billion in additional healthcare costs.

With the possibility of losing hard-won progress, contributing to efforts like AIDS Walk has never been more important, and Radiant Health Centers remains committed to reaching more people across the Orange County community with HIV prevention, education and outreach. Together, by supporting HIV awareness and healthcare, we can take crucial steps towards ending the epidemic.

Contact Us for HIV Treatment in Orange County

Radiant Health Centers provides HIV testing and treatment services at our Irvine medical clinic. For support with PEP, PrEP, Rapid ART and other healthcare solutions, speak with our team today. Call (949) 809-5700 or request an appointment now.

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