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.