Navigating Life after Finding out You Are HIV-Positive

Discovering you are HIV-positive after testing for HIV disease in Pasadena requires you to have a good support team. Fortunately, the Hospice and Palliative Care of California team is here to tell you that you are not alone. Millions of people have learned to live positively after discovering they contracted the virus. The following tips will help you cope with

HIV:

1.      Be optimistic about life after the virus

It must be overwhelming to find out you have HIV. It is normal to feel like life’s unfair. Initially, you may have come across photos of people dying from the virus. It could be a close loved one. However, there is no reason why you should not be positive in life. Evidence has proven that the more positive about life with HIV, the higher your chances of increasing your lifespan. It is not a death sentence as it was earlier alleged.

2.      Religiously take your drugs to manage the virus

One thing is for sure: the cure for HIV/AIDS has not been discovered yet. However, you can still contain the virus through antiretroviral therapy, depending on your CD4 count. In most cases, a doctor will run some tests to determine the status of your immune system. Whether your HIV is under control or progresses at an alarming rate, your doctor can devise a suitable treatment plan for you. The bottom line is to adhere to your doctor’s and manufacturer’s instructions to benefit from the drugs.

3.      Surround yourself with a strong support team

Initially, when people discussed HIV in closed doors, it was daunting to find a support team. Currently, medical practitioners and human rights activists are championing against the stigma. No one is going to judge you based on your HIV status. If you are looking for a support team, join at least one HIV and AIDS support group. You can ask your doctor to link you up with one. If being HIV positive affects your mental health, ask your doctor to refer you to a psychotherapist or a psychologist.

4.      Share your story with someone you trust

One of the reasons medical practitioners are advised against disclosing a patient’s HIV status is to protect them against stigmatization. After that, it is up to you to decide who to share it with, but it is not a must. If you have to share it with someone, find people who share your interest.

5.      Use protective measures

Now that you have found out you are HIV positive, protect others from contracting it. That applies even when you have not started experiencing any symptoms. When having sex, use a condom. Pregnant mothers should discuss with their doctors the measures to take to avoid spreading the virus to their unborn children.

Acceptance is the first stage towards recovery

Now that you have accepted that you are HIV positive, try to apply these tips. If you develop any symptoms pointing to AIDS, discuss with your doctor about revising your dosage requirements. That way, you will remain active and healthy like never before. To learn more about HIV/AIDS testing and treatment options, schedule a consultation with your doctor today.