First we take a deep breath. . . .

First we take a deep breath. . . .

Let’s say you’ve just heard the nurse say, Yes, you’re HIV-positive. You’re leaving the place where you were tested feeling numb – it hasn’t sunk in yet. What are the first things you need to know?

First, testing positive is not a death sentence any more. Your life will change, and you will have to work hard with your doctor, but you can look forward to a pretty normal way of life and length of life.

Second, lots of other people have already gone through this, and there are a lot of support networks out there. You can visit sites like TheBody to find hotlines and read advice from others who have been where you are now.

So take a deep breath, and take a little time to be nice to yourself, before you start working on specifics like finding the right doctor. Unless, of course, getting to work is how you deal with news you really didn’t want, in which case, dive right in! But most people need a little time. If you do, take it.