Big Sis, I just found out someone I know is living with HIV… I don’t really know what to say or how to help them. How do people manage this, like really live and thrive with it?
Hey Chom,
Living with any condition can be difficult. It changes your whole life, neh. Whether you or a friend has to manage to live with HIV, one thing is important - be kind, chom. To them, to yourself.
Lemme start by telling you that it is a very manageable condition, okay?
Many people experience no symptoms for years, and if they are on their medication, they can live a full life. It's not the death sentence it used to be in the 80s. And we don’t need to be scared of it. As long as we take precautions, HIV-positive people and HIV-Negative people can all live normally together.
That being said, there is a lifestyle change that comes with a positive result, chom. One can make life changes and decisions once diagnosed, that make sure you are doing your best to stay healthy, manage relationships and also make sure the people around you are educated on your condition.
Well, babes, the first thing to do is take your ART or antiretroviral therapy. That’s the medicine that helps you live well with HIV and keeps the virus low (undetectable) in your body. If the virus or viral load is low, it can’t spread to others and keeps you feeling good. But ghel, you gotta stick to it – set reminders, find a routine, and if you need to, chat with your healthcare provider to work out any side effects.
Then, you gotta eat healthy and exercise. Just like all of us. General health and hygiene is key, ghel. Take care of yourself, keep your space and body clean. And that’s not to keep others safe, chom - as someone with HIV you are in the most danger of catching a secondary infection. That is what can make you super sick. You gotta keep your immune system Ayoba - so eat that vitamin C and sanitise your space.
Mental health is just as important as physical health. HIV doesn’t define you, but it can be a lot to handle at first. So talk it out – whether it’s with a counsellor, close friend, or support group. Therapy, journaling, and staying connected can help keep your vibe right and your spirit high.
Mzansi has loads of support networks where you can connect with others who get what you’re going through.
Telling someone about your HIV status? Yoh, it’s a personal choice and it can feel like a mountain, ghel. Trust your gut on when and who to tell. Remember no one can reveal your status besides you. Start with someone you trust deeply, like a close friend or a support group. When it comes to dating, honesty upfront can lead to a stronger connection, ghel.
There are several HIV support networks in South Africa, including helplines, organizations, and support groups:
National AIDS Helpline: Call 0800 012 322 for help or advice
HIVSA: Call 011 494 1900 for help and support
Reach HIV 911: Call 0860 HIV 911 (0860 448 911) or SMS 45080 for referrals
LoveLife: Call the toll-free youth line or send a Plz Cal Me to get a free call
And of course, I am here too!
Chat with me anytime,
Big Sis