Putting it all together

Early treatment protects your health and others.

  • The goal of treatment is to reduce your viral load.
  • If you get side effects, talk to your doctor about changing medication.
  • Find a doctor who is knowledgeable about HIV or willing to learn.

Allow your feelings.

  • Don’t fight them.
  • They won’t last forever.
  • Reach out immediately if you are experiencing agitated distress.

Learning to disclose.

  • Don’t rush into it.
  • Talking with other people with HIV can help.
  • Knowing the facts can help you push back against stigma.
  • You don’t have to disclose before sex with effective protection. This means using condoms until you reach suppressed viral load.

Support is available when you are ready.

  • Talking with other people with HIV can help make HIV feel ordinary and manageable.
  • An HIV Peer Navigator or Peer Support Worker can help you work out what services might be helpful and how to access them.
  • Engaging with other people and groups with HIV can help reduce social isolation and contribute to your wellbeing.
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