Anthony Basco, LCSW

Today is National HIV Long-Term Survivors Awareness Day, a day where we celebrate the success and recognize the challenges that come with living with HIV. With my diagnosis in December 2013, this is the first year that I am considered a long-term survivor. I've learned a lot over the past decade, about living with HIV and other chronic health conditions, about stigma, and about how to not just survive but LIVE. Here's what I've learned:

-Spend as much time as you can doing the things you're passionate about,
-Surround yourself with people who lift you up and inspire you,
-Take chances,
-Learn from your mistakes,
-Take care of your body, and
-Never stop growing as a person.

Here's to MANY MANY MANY more years of not just surviving, but livin

Happy ! No matter if you’re out to everyone you know, only yourself, or somewhere in between: You are valid and deserving of love. Don’t ever let anyone tell you different.

And if you’re struggling with your sexual orientation or gender identity, please feel free to reach out to me or any other qualified mental health professional. We are here to help.

There’s no right or wrong way to feel when experiencing a disaster, but it’s important to take time, find strength and find healthy ways to cope.
➡️ Coping tips & resources: https://buff.ly/3hzYGlY
➡️ Counseling & support: on Twitter or 1-800-985-5990

Do you need help with your mental health?

If you don't know where to start, this infographic may help guide you. https://go.usa.gov/xGfxz

I am pleased to announce that I have accepted a position in the Behavioral Health Department at CareSouth Medical and Dental in Baton Rouge. CareSouth accepts all Louisiana Bayou Health Medicaid plans, as well as most major insurers. To schedule an appointment, call (225) 650-2000.

CareSouth will be providing free rapid HIV testing on Saturday June 26th from 9am to 1pm. The first 50 people to get tested will receive a $25 gift card. I will be in attendance as one of our rapid testers, and can provide post-diagnosis counseling and linkage assistance to anyone who tests positive. If you're not comfortable having a stranger test you, you are welcome to request me by name.

NATIONAL HIV TESTING DAY -- CareSouth is hosting Free HIV testing as part of National HIV Testing Day. The first 50 people will receive a $25 gift card. It will be held on June 26 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m at our Baton Rouge Clinic, 3140 Florida St.

My statement to the Louisiana Senate Committee on Health and Welfare regarding SB 104:

My name is Anthony Basco, and I am a clinical social worker in Baton Rouge. I am writing to express my strong opposition to SB 104 which would create additional unnecessary barriers to transgender youth in accessing gender-affirming care. These barriers would very likely have a direct negative impact on these young people, who are already disproportionately impacted by abuse, neglect, and su***de. It is my professional opinion that if this bill passes, it will cause a rise in self-harm and su***de in Louisiana's trans children and youth. Please vote no on SB 104.