Testing HIV positive is not the end of the world—and especially not the end of you. Being HIV positive is a challenge, but it also can be an opportunity to grow.If you're newly diagnosed, stop and take a deep breath—then start learning how to live with HIV.
Scroll down to watch video interviews, read an introduction to HIV/AIDS and find additional resources.
Video Interviews
Advice for the newly diagnosed from various perspectives:
Newly diagnosed with HIV in 2006, David Richards didn't know what to do at first. He was angry and he was anxious. He questioned how long he had to live. He disclosed only to the closest family and friends. In the short time that he's known about being HIV positive, David has learned how to find the support that he needs.
After she was diagnosed with HIV in 1993, Andrea Williams was determined to live. Her resolve only increased after the birth of her HIV-negative daughter in 1996. Married for 20 years to Leslie Williams, Andrea and her husband prove that people with HIV can live long and healthy lives.
When he was diagnosed with HIV and hepatitis C in 1993, Leslie Williams was mostly concerned for his wife, Andrea. The bad news was that Andrea was HIV positive. The good news was that their daughter was born HIV negative in 1996. Married for 20 years, Leslie and his wife give hope for living long-term with HIV.
Barbara Zeller, MD, medical director of HELP/PSI, talks with Tim Horn, AIDSmeds president and editor-in-chief, about the importance of health care for the newly diagnosed and how the newly diagnosed can make the most of their doctor's visits. (A two-part video interview.)
Jennifer Herman, LMSW, coordinator of women's project at Beth Israel Medical Center's AIDS Services, talks with Tim Horn, AIDSmeds president and editor-in-chief, about the importance of social workers and case managers in assisting the newly diagnosed.
An Introduction to HIV/AIDS
One of the most important tools that you have in fighting HIV is your relationship with your doctor. It's worth spending time looking for the right doctor, and changing doctors who don't work for you. If at all possible, find a doctor who specializes in treating HIV.
To ask for advice on finding a doctor with experience treating people with HIV, contact your local AIDS service organization (ASO)—they usually have a list of recommended doctors in your area. To find your local ASO, you can search our AIDS Services Directory.
Talk to your doctor—see if you feel comfortable with him or her. If you don't feel comfortable discussing your most personal stuff with the doctor then maybe you should change doctors. Remember—your doctor works for you.
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions by the newly diagnosed:
Here are additional resources from POZ that can help you learn how to live with HIV/AIDS:
POZ Focus is a special issue that focuses on one topic—check out this one for the newly diagnosed.
POZ Mentor is an online support program for people with HIV/AIDS at different stages of dealing with the disease.
POZ Forums is a discussion area for people with HIV/AIDS, their friends/family/caregivers, and others concerned about HIV/AIDS.
POZ Blogs are the autobiographical stories of people living with HIV/AIDS.
POZ Personals is the fastest-growing online community for HIV-positive dating.
Monique Moree, Nick Rhoades and Robert Suttle speak out against HIV criminalization laws. Click here to read more about their stories in the June 2012 issue of POZ.
