My doctor, she sat down and she just said, “I don’t know how to tell you this, but you’re HIV positive.”
I fell into a deep depression. I didn’t really want to be around anyone, kind of just isolated myself.
Therapy was not one of those things that were talked about in our family and culturally, it’s just not something that was talked about.
When I was finally able to sit down with a therapist, it was a huge weight lifted off of my shoulders. I kind of felt, like, I wasn’t holding a secret anymore.
Just talking about all the emotions of not only being diagnosed with HIV but being in a toxic relationship, not having self-love for myself, not knowing what my worth was, not making informed decisions.
I was kind of able to just talk through those emotions without feeling like I was being judged. I think that for anyone that is struggling with just accepting the fact that they are living with HIV talking to a friend or a professional is just super important.
Let’s Talk About HIV Treatment!
Antiretrovirals, the medications used to treat HIV, keep you healthy and prevent the spread of HIV to others.
Even if you do not have insurance, or are underinsured, there are options to get the care and medications you need to stay healthy.
The Ryan White HIV/AIDS Care Program offers support services for people with HIV, including mental health care, housing assistance, and more.
The AIDS Drug Assistance Program to help individuals with financial need get their HIV medications.
Click here to find out more about the health and preventative benefits of HIV treatment.