Whether you have recently found you are HIV positive or have known it for some time, it is normal for you to feel many kinds of feelings; fear, uncertainty, anger, frustration, confusion, guilt, grief, etc. Finding out that you are infected is usually overwhelming. Even if you had suspected it for some time, learning that you are can be a very traumatic experience. You do not have to look at testing HIV positive as if you have been given a death sentence.
There is a large variety of emotional, social, and medical resources available for you to lead a productive and happy life.
Testing positive for HIV does not mean that you have AIDS, but HIV is probably the greatest threat you have ever faced. Many HIV positive people now live fulfilling and happy lives. Many are healthy and show no symptoms of disease. This virus may remain inactive in your body for a long time, but it may not. There remain many uncertainties surrounding HIV, and even though there is currently "no cure" for HIV infection, it is becoming a chronic illness that often can be managed through medications and other means such as changing health habits and improving the psychological quality of your life. By arming yourself with information and sources of support, and deciding what is right for you, you will realize that you can have control of your life and your health.
Many HIV positive people have made huge changes in the way they live. They have broken bad habits, such as drinking too much, smoking, or abusing drugs. Some have gotten out of bad relationships or quit the jobs they really hated. Facing the possibility of getting sick or dying can switch one's perspective about life and can drive us to take actions in areas we have previously ignored. Remember, it is still your life, your body, your health, and you must be the one taking control and making decisions. Take your time to educate yourself and decide what is right for you. Now more than ever, you are your first priority.
Your are not alone and you dont have to face this experience on your own. Dont feel ashamed or weak about the emotions and thoughts you are feeling. Asking for help, reaching out for support, educating yourself, is the wise choice to be made.
Through counseling you can:
Learn to acknowledge, express, and validate your emotions while receiving psychological support and reassurance.
Learn about available resources and support in your community.
Identify and correct unhealthy patterns of behaviors/relationships/habits that exaccerbate your depression and other unwanted symptoms.
Change your perceptions about the illness and learn to view it as an opportunity for growth and strength.
Transform guilt and regrets into growth and acceptance.
Open our Recommended Readings page to find helpful books on this topic.
