There are millions of people with HIV worldwide who are living happy and fulfilling lives. For them, and soon enough for you, HIV becomes part of the background, no more or less important than they want to make it in their lives. HIV is a medical diagnosis, but it's also much more than a medical diagnosis. Testing positive for HIV is a serious matter but one that you can deal with. Starting HIV medications early is one of the best ways to take care of your health. Antiretroviral therapy or ART (taking medicine to treat HIV infection) is recommended for all people with HIV, regardless of how long they’ve had the virus or how healthy they are. Know that you are not alone. Many people are living with HIV, even if you don't know that they are. Develop a network of people including friends, family, healthcare providers and others impacted by HIV to provide you support throughout your life with this new diagnosis.
RESOURCES FOR PEOPLE LIVING WITH HIV
- Living with HIV, CDC
- U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services
- State HIV/AIDS Hotlines
- HIV and COVID-19, CDC
