Hi 🙂
Yes, I have been absolutely terrified to date, to disclose, and truthfully, to start accepting myself. You are not alone, but good things will come.
Two years after being diagnosed I went out on date with a colleague. After a few dates, I got to the point where I felt comfortable enough to disclose and his response was really kind and caring, but still I struggle with self-acceptance. Mr. Hopp's comment on my post here really helped.
His video on self acceptance: https://www.herpesopportunity.com/post/herpes-and-self-acceptance and others alike have been important for me to return to when I am feeling low.
It certainly feels like a marathon, not a sprint, but I can see the power of creating space to be upset, but then also altering my mindset to become more positive.
You are right, dating is hard in general, but herpes doesn't define you ❤️ You are awesome.