Testing positive for HIV can be devastating. Research shows that early diagnosis with the right treatment can mean a normal life expectancy for an HIV positive person. So while there is no cure for the virus, the earlier you are diagnosed, the more chance you have of living a healthy life with your condition under control and managed by medication.
The results of an HIV test are likely to be given to you in person with a second test done there and then to confirm the diagnosis. Your doctor or health adviser will then refer you to specialist HIV services, counsel you about your emotions on receiving this news and provide information about support services of which there are many.
Being given the news that you are HIV positive is likely to elicit a wealth of emotions. Even if you have suspected that you have HIV, you are likely to be shocked by confirmation of this diagnosis. Other typical emotions are denial, frustration and sadness while many people feel relief that they now know for sure.
The available support services in the UK mean that you don’t have to deal with your diagnosis on your own. Receiving devastating news such as a positive HIV test means you might not be in the right state of mind to ask questions about what happens next. You also might not take in precisely what your doctor is telling you. These are perfectly normal reactions – it may take you some time to come to terms with your diagnosis. There is no single, simple reaction; every individual will take the news in his or her own way. Your doctor will give you written information about the virus and there are 24-hour helplines you can call if you have questions you need answered.
An essential part of HIV care is safe sex – you will be advised on using a condom to prevent you passing on the virus to a sexual partner and given suggestions on behavioural changes that minimise the risks of you passing on the virus; for example, through infected needles if you’re an injecting drug addict.
Treatment for HIV has improved dramatically in the three decades since the virus was first identified. Find out as much information as possible about the combination of medications used to treat the virus and their possible side effects.
You may need to talk to someone about the effects of the diagnosis on you and there are specialist counselling services available that can support through a very difficult period in your life. An important consideration is who you tell about your health status and when. There may be potential consequences so think carefully about who needs to know.
You don’t have to face a positive diagnosis of HIV on your own. Look for support groups with other HIV positive people where you can share your fears but also know that you are not alone.
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