Aunty Lou's Hour: Help! How Do I Live With HIV?

HIV can teach us many things. Once you find out you have HIV, it will be a lifelong journey of medication. Along with medication, there are other ways we can live well with HIV.

I talk to Bridgette from The Well Project about her experience.

Living well with HIV involves a combination of medical care, healthy lifestyle choices, and emotional support.

Seek medical care: Regular medical care is crucial for managing HIV. Find a healthcare provider with experience in treating HIV/AIDS, and follow their recommendations for medication, lab tests, and check-ups.

Adhere to antiretroviral therapy (ART): ART is the cornerstone of HIV treatment. Take your medication as prescribed, and follow the dosing schedule. ART helps control the virus, prevents the progression of HIV to AIDS, and reduces the risk of transmitting the virus to others.

Practice safe sex: Use condoms consistently and correctly to reduce the risk of transmitting HIV to sexual partners. Discuss your HIV status openly with your partners, and consider involving them in discussions with your healthcare provider about pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) or other prevention strategies.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Focus on maintaining a healthy immune system by adopting a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep. Avoid smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and recreational drug use, as these can weaken your immune system and interact negatively with HIV medications.

Manage stress: Living with HIV can be emotionally challenging. Find healthy ways to cope with stress, such as practicing mindfulness, engaging in hobbies, or seeking support from friends, family, or support groups. Mental health counseling or therapy may also be beneficial.

Connect with support networks: Reach out to organizations, support groups, or online communities that cater to people living with HIV. Connecting with others who are going through similar experiences can provide valuable support, information, and a sense of community.

Practice self-care: Take care of your physical and emotional well-being. Engage in activities you enjoy, prioritize self-care, and make time for relaxation and leisure. This can help reduce stress and improve your overall quality of life.

Educate yourself: Stay informed about HIV/AIDS by reading credible sources of information. Understanding your condition and treatment options empowers you to make informed decisions about your health.