HIV positive: now you know
by Kathryn Thompson
"When I was first diagnosed HIV posi tive, it was all I could think about. It was the way I defined my life and myself and I was ashamed. As time went by, I learned that I was more than someone who who was simply HIV-challenged. I found out that I was a person who loved and who was deserving of love. Things are much better today." Mark
W.
So, you've tested positive
Your first reaction to the news that you have HIV may be panic, or fear, or depression, or even anger, but knowing your HIV status opens the door for you to take an active role in determining your future health. Today there are many treatment options, support groups, resources and information available to you, your friends and family. You can educate yourself about this disease and to make the right decisions for your life.
Value of knowing
When it comes to HIV, knowledge is power. Testing is the first step in helping you receive appropriate treatment. Early detection of HIV, followed by certain drug combi-
nations, can greatly improve both the quality
and length of your life. Now that you know you are HIV positive, you can use this knowledge to avoid spreading the disease. What about transmission?
HIV is only transmitted in three ways: Having sexual contact where body fluids such as blood, semen, pre-ejaculate, vaginal secretions, or breast milk are transferred from the infected person to another; blood to blood contact such as sharing dirty needles for piercing, tattoos, steroids, or drug use; from an infected mother to her unborn child.
Emotional responses
Everyone reacts to getting a positive test result differently and whatever you are feeling is okay. Sometimes talking with others can help you process these emotions. The important thing is for you to find a way to deal with your emotions in a constructive
manner.
How do I get support?
The most important thing to remember when finding support is to surround yourself with people you can trust. Support networks can include family, friends, social/support groups, therapists, case managers and other individuals living with HIV. Remember to clearly communicate your support needs and develop support relationships that work for
you.
What are my health care options?
Today, there are many new advances and breakthroughs in medications. There are also many alternative therapies ranging from healthy nutrition and herbal remedies to therapeutic massage and exercise: Learn as much as you can and find a treatment or combination of treatments that is right for you. Who should I tell?
There is no easy way to telling others about being positive. Here are a few things to think about then making this decision: Am I emotionally ready to share this information with another person? How will I react if this person responds negatively? Will this person maintain my confidentiality?
Where do I go from here?
Your first task is to take care of yourself physically, emotionally, psychologically and spiritually. Begin to regain a sense of control by taking an active role. One of the best things you can do is to learn as much as you can about HIV to help you make the best possible decisions about your health and your future. Some of the best sources of information are books, articles, the Internet and other HIV positive people. Many of them have gone through what you are now experiencing.
Local AIDS service organizations and 800 hotline numbers may be helpful in answering most questions or helping you find assis-
tance.
Kathryn Thompson is the education coordinator for AIDS Volunteers of Cincinnati.
David's House has events from 'HIV 101' to AIDS Walk
by Mary Jay
Toledo-David's House Compassion, Inc., northwest Ohio's premier AIDS service organization, includes as a central part of its community outreach a variety of educational programs designed to battle the spread of HIV, keep those with the virus healthy and instruct people with it in various aspects of living with the disease.
Here are some of the upcoming programs at David's House:
Basic HIV Education Course
Wednesday December 12, 1 pm to 4 pm. Saturday February 9, 2002 9 am to noon. The Basic HIV/AIDS Course is offered free of charge to the public. However, 3.0 social work and counseling continuing education units are available for the bargain basement price of only $5.
To register, call Mary Jay at 419-244-6682. What is Housing Discrimination? Wednesday, January 16, 2002, Noon to 1:30 pm.
Unfortunately people living with HIV and AIDS still experience housing discrimination. However, many people are unaware of their housing rights.
Michael Marsh, a civil rights advocate and the development manager for the Toledo Fair Housing Center will discuss what "fair
housing" is and how to combat discriminatory housing practices.
A free lunch will be provided courtesy of Abbott Pharmaceuticals.
To register, call Mary Jay at 419-244-6682. Ya Gotta Have Art
Thursday, February 7, 2002, 2 to 3:30 pm. Combat the winter blues by unleashing your creative power. Betsy Graves, a case manager with David's House and an art therapy instructor, will help guide you express yourself with markers and colored pencils.
Refreshments will be provided. To register, call Mary Jay at 419-244-6682: And don't forget:
Annual AIDS Walk
Saturday, May 4, 2002
You can make this year's AIDS Walk even more of a success by joining our AIDS Walk committee, getting pledges, making an in-kind donation, or by simply walking. Call Marymargaret Sushnik at 419-244-6682 for more information.
All events, unless otherwise noted, take place at David's House, 501 N, Detroit Av enue, Toledo.
Be sure to visit our web site at http:// www.davidshouse.com.
Mary Jay is the director of education services at David's House.
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