You have what it takes
to help yourself
On your HIV journey, you’ll find that support comes in all shapes and sizes and that it often starts with you.
Things you can do to stay resilient
through self-care and support
Living with HIV means paying attention to things you may not have considered before your diagnosis, like when and what you eat, your time away from home, and how you’re sleeping, to name a few.
Even just thinking about how your everyday activities relate to living with HIV is a major step toward self-care. Self-care is any activity where you set aside time to take care of your mental, emotional, and physical health.
This may include*:
- Keeping in touch with your healthcare provider
- Eating healthy
- Sleeping well
- Finding exercises that work for you
- Meditating and self-reflection
*Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any exercise or nutritional program.
Choosing a treatment—your next step in self-care
When you and your healthcare provider choose an appropriate treatment, you’re taking an important step along your HIV self-care journey and being responsible by potentially reducing the risk of passing HIV to others.
It’s important to be honest with your healthcare provider, because the more they know about your life with HIV, the more likely they’ll be able to help you achieve your treatment goals.
Reaching out for support from family and friends
Support is often closer than you think, especially with your family and friends. But not everyone may react the same way. Some people may need more time to understand what you’re going through, but having at least one family member or friend become part of your support system could greatly strengthen your journey.
Remember—the community has your back
Sometimes you’re able to find the support you need through friends, family, and healthcare providers. Other times, you can find it at community centers, HIV health centers, school, online groups, and forums.
The HIV community knows its power comes in numbers, and that the more support it shares together, the more resilient it can be against HIV.
Explore these medical, emotional, and financial support options for HIV.