A positive HIV test can leave you overwhelmed with questions and searching for answers, but it is important to remember that you are not alone. More than 1 million HIV-positive individuals are living in the United States alone. With modern medicine and available HIV resources you can maintain a long, healthy lifestyle.
Below are some tips on what you should do after an HIV diagnosis.
Schedule an Appointment with an HIV Doctor
After an HIV diagnosis, it is important you find a doctor who can evaluate your overall health and identify the amount of HIV present in your body. If you have been living with HIV for an extended period of time, your treatment plan may differ than if it was recently transferred. Your doctor can also provide you with the resources and information you need to take control of your HIV.
Discover What it Means to Be HIV Positive
An HIV diagnosis is different for everyone but defining what living with HIV means to you will help you regain confidence. Knowledge through education is a powerful tool to have in this process. Some resources and information to seek out include:
- HIV blogs
- Medical or nonprofit websites
- HIV meetings or groups
- Treatment options and medical advice
- Housing opportunities
- Mental health wellness
Notifying Sexual Partners and Future Partners
Notifying sexual partners can be a stressful conversation, but there are ways to make it easier. Some options such as STDcheck.com or bettertoknow.org offer people anonymity. There are also online forums and blogs to help you plan out “the talk” or you can utilize your case manager to help you.
Start Living the Life You Deserve
An HIV diagnosis should not prevent you from doing the things you love. With treatment, support and education, you can get back to living your life to the fullest.
If you are interested in learning more about the latest treatments and receiving free help within central Pennsylvania, contact us today!
