The first thing to remember is that you are not alone. Many people have been living with HIV over 15 years now.

The time immediately following an HIV positive diagnosis can be frightening. It may feel as if your world has been turned upside down and you don’t know where to turn. At first, you will be bombarded with new and complicated information. You will soon become familiar with the terms used in relation to HIV.

There is often misunderstanding and stigma surrounding an HIV diagnosis. Therefore, confidentiality is an important issue. Be sure any person you tell can be fully trusted. Call a help line or talk to a counsellor (Resources) before disclosing your status to others. Our Outreach Worker is available for one-to-one counselling.

We recommend that you find a doctor who specializes in HIV care and access one-to-one and/or group support from other people living with the disease. We provide these support services and can give you the names of HIV specialists.

For now, the most important thing is to take care of yourself. Get plenty of rest, exercise and eat healthy foods. You may want to take vitamins or supplements or seek alternative health therapies.

We can help and support you through this difficult time. Contact our office for confidential assistance.