TW: Mention of suicide.
Learning that you are HIV-positive can be one of the most difficult experiences you could go through in life. You may feel scared, sad, or even angry, and that’s OK. It’s a completely natural part of coping with something that can be life-changing.
But remember, HIV doesn’t have to stop you from living a long, happy, and fulfilling life.
With the right treatment and support, it is possible to live as long as the average person. I felt that if I told someone that I was positive, they would judge me and wouldn’t accept me. So, I have kept it a secret. But, keeping it a secret made me feel alone and isolated from the world.
I was depressed, felt a lot of stress, and at times, even planned to end this useless life where I could not be myself. I felt like my situation couldn’t be understood and it became hard to trust people. These old beliefs were making my life harder each passing day. I saw no hope or purpose to live but for my family. They were my everything.
I personally think that society, as well as the laws, do damage. The laws are vague and not clearly defined. People need more information in a clearer tone.
I feel like there should be more awareness among people so that, least of all, the community suffering from this can live freely and accept themselves. More support groups and counselling should be given on a regular basis so that at least the stigma of HIV is removed.
We are not dirty. We didn’t do anything wrong. We just need love, care, equality, and some support so that we can keep up with ourselves. I am living a completely normal life with no diseases other than this infection. I have no problem with this but the hiding it part scares me.