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The test results are here and, sadly, they are positive. You have HIV. This is a situation you never thought you’d find yourself in. But you are here, and no, your life has not come to a screeching halt, it just might feel like it. Living with HIV will require you to make certain lifestyle adjustments, and HIV positive dating might be a bit more challenging than you expected. However, it is nothing you can’t handle. After the initial shock, it is time to take the reins and take back control of your life, and here are some easy to follow steps that will help you do just that.
Accept the new normal
This might be the hardest part. Usually, when we get sick, we get treatment and with a bit of luck, we get cured. With HIV, you’ll never get completely cured, you will have it for the rest of your life. And this is hardest to accept. Yes, you will be able to manage the symptoms and even live a long and rich life, but you will always have to be that much more careful when it comes to interaction with other people. And not just that, there will be some major lifestyle changes, especially when it comes to nutrition and exercise, as you need to keep your body in top health in order to stay strong and combat the virus. Sure, medicine has come a long way, and the medications prescribed today can keep the disease at bay, but it is still up to you to not let it take over your life. So, now that you have realized what initial changes need to be made, it is also important to ensure that you are psychologically prepared for living with HIV. You will need to be open about it with people who are closest to you, and most importantly, you will need to accept that this is not a temporary state, but rather a permanent one.
Don’t let it affect your love life
This is the biggest concern for anyone who has just been diagnosed with HIV. It might feel that you have to give up on your love life or any kind of intimate relationship. But this is simply not the case. However, there are certain things you need to be prepared for. There will be people who will reject you on the basis of HIV, but it is just due to their own ignorance and fear. And it is perfectly fine. You need to stay open and honest regarding your current condition, and you will find a partner who will understand that with the right protection, you can still have a fantastic relationship. And not only that, you can even start a family and have healthy children with the proper guidance by a medical professional. So, there is no need for you to shy away from the opportunity to love and be loved just on the basis of your diagnosis.
Even with HIV, you’ll still get to live your best life. You’ll get to travel, have a career, find love, and start a family when you are ready. Luckily, this virus no longer poses such a threat with all the modern medical advancements, and it can be kept under control. So, take a deep breath. Yes, the test results are positive, but your life is far from being over. Get informed, make the necessary lifestyle adjustments and there is nothing stopping you from enjoying the rest of your life.
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This content is sponsored by Stefan Simonovic.
Photo: Shutterstock