Whom should I tell?

Tell your doctor that you are HIV-positive so that he or she can monitor your health and not prescribe drugs that will harm your immune system.

You should also tell anyone who may be exposed to your blood, semen, or vaginal fluid, including present and past sexual partners or needle-sharing partners. If you do not inform these partners yourself, a physician or public health worker may be allowed to inform them that they might be at risk for HIV infection.

You may want to tell one or two trusted friends or relatives about your HIV status to help them build their own support network. If you are not comfortable discussing this with anyone you know, you can discuss it with a counselor.

How do I get treatments and medical care?

Find a doctor or clinic where you can get regular medical checkups to monitor your health. Talk with your health care providers about your health and treatment options. Ask questions about anything you don't understand. Learn about HIV treatments and about AIDS. Take an active role in managing your own health!

How do I cope with having HIV/AIDS?

HIV/AIDS brings with it many quality-of-life issues, including:

• poor nutrition
• depression, anxiety, and mental health issues
• financial difficulties
• legal problems
• workplace issues

To help keep your quality of life, be sure to exercise; eat a well-balanced, nutritious diet; avoid stress, and get enough sleep. It is helpful to avoid cigarettes, excessive alcohol, and recreational drugs, all of which can reduce your body's ability to fight infections.

What else can I do?

Services and support organizations are available in every major city and region of the US. Check your local telephone directory for a local listing. You may also contact the national organizations listed in the Resources section of this Condition Forum.