Privacy Notice

HIV and AIDS

Human Immunodeficiency Virus, or HIV, is a bloodborne pathogen transmitted by sexual contact, intravenous drug use, during childbirth from an infected mother to her unborn child, or through breastfeeding by an infected mother to her child. HIV is the virus that causes Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, or AIDS.

According to the NIH (National Institute of Health), an estimated 42 million people are living with HIV or AIDS worldwide. In the United States, the CDC estimates that 850,000 to 950,000 people have HIV or AIDS (although 25% are unaware of their infection).  There are approximately 40,000 new HIV infections in the US each year, with 70% being male, and 30% female. Half of all newly infected people are younger than 25 years of age.  Although when diagnosed with HIV or AIDS many people feel alone and isolated, the numbers tell a different story.change

HIV creates profound biological, social, and psychological changes for those who are infected.  The disease may challenge a person’s sense of who they are, their relationships to others, and often their purpose in life.  Its consequences can impact a person's basic needs (housing,  food,  finances, employment, etc.)  HIV is, however, a changing epidemic and with research and new treatment options, there is new hope for those living with the disease.  While there are continuous advances and improvements with medical treatments, there are also advancements in understanding and treating the psychological impact of the disease.

When faced with a diagnosis of HIV or AIDS, there are many emotional issues that a person may experience. Some of the common concerns or issues include anger, loss (health, job, relationships), stigma and fear of disclosure.  There may also be a general fear, as well as anxiety, isolation, and depression.  People with HIV must also cope with the psychological effects of fatigue,  medication side effects, insomnia, irritability and difficulty with concentration.  Substance abuse also frequently either co-occurs or develops after a diagnosis of HIV or AIDS.

Many individuals already have pre-existing psychological issues which makes it even more challenging to cope with HIV.  Being a victim of sexual abuse is very common among those with HIV. Further, some people may not only be coming out to their families about being HIV+, but also coming out about being homosexual as well.  If diagnosed with HIV or AIDS, it is important for the individual to gain emotional and psychological support. Unfortunately, due to the perceived stigma of the disease, many people do not seek the services that they need. However, HIV is treatable and with medical and psychological treatment, people can live happy and productive lives in spite of having the disease.

Therapy can help clients become more proactive, re-engage in life and in relationships, learn to cope with symptoms, and take an active role in their health issues. Therapy can help those with HIV to develop greater self-awareness,  especially with self-defeating behaviors, stronger coping skills, and the motivation to engage in meaningful and productive activities. Further, there are many promising studies that indicate a potential link between the HIV positive person’s health, and taking care of their emotional health.

If a person is diagnosed with HIV or AIDS, they should reach out to trusted friends and family members.  Individuals can also seek a support group for those with HIV, contact their local AIDS Service Organization for information on available psychosocial support, and seek therapy with a competent and licensed therapist who is practiced in working with those who have HIV or AIDS.

If face-to-face therapy is not an option, or the individual is not willing to consider face-to-face counseling, they may consider online counseling as one of the many sources of support available (or at least as a bridge to seeking more services).  As with any form of therapy, one should check the credentials of the therapist, and ensure that they are at minimum Licensed to provide counseling (one should be able to verify this with the therapist's Licensing Board). Further, make sure that this individual has training and experience in working with those who are infected or affected with HIV.

The following are HIV-related links that may be helpful:

Joint United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS)

Saint Louis Effort For AIDS

The Body

aids.org

If you are ready to begin online therapy, please go to the Begin Therapy section of this site.