People who are infected with the HIV virus sometimes try so hard to survive thinking that it is the end of their world. However, there are several ways of living positively and healthy for a very long time.
People who are infected with the HIV virus sometimes try so hard to survive thinking that it is the end of their world. However, there are several ways of living positively and healthy for a very long time.
In the same way, HIV-positive people must learn to cope with their new status and learn how to live with it. That is what we call, ‘Positive Living’ or ‘Living Positively with HIV/AIDS’.
Acceptance
How you got the virus is not important. What matters is the fact that you have it and how you deal with it. Stop dwelling on the past. Work with your feelings and accept your new status as part of your life. That is the starting point.
Take care of your body
A healthy HIV-positive lifestyle involves more than just taking medication. No matter how well your treatment plan is going, maintaining a healthy diet and staying active are always important.
And even if you’re already taking good care of yourself, you can always learn new ways to live a healthier life. Remember with a strong mind, body, and spirit, you can fight HIV with all you’ve got.
Anti-Retroviral Drugs (ARVs)
For those who are on ARVs, it is important to know that these anti-HIV drugs are not a cure but only improve the quality of life. They are a life-time commitment and they should never be taken without medical supervision.
It is crucial to adhere to the drug regiment to avoid resistant strains of HIV not only for you but also for others.
Medical help
Find a doctor or a nurse you can work with, take care of your body, mind and learn all you can about HIV. Information is very important for a healthy life with HIV.
Good nutrition
We all know that healthy eating is good for our bodies, but when you are living with HIV, it’s even more important. Eating a balanced, nutritious diet gives your body the strength it needs to fight the disease.
Drinking plenty of water
Taking plenty of water every day maintains fluids in your body. This is even more important if you are vomiting, have diarrhea, flu or a fever.
Do physical exercises
Do exercises you like such as; jogging, yoga or go swimming; All these will help you live longer with the virus without any worries.
Counselling
With counselling and love, you can beat difficult times especially when handling social crises like stigma. Emotional sharing through post-test clubs is important to people living with HIV, family members and friends. Tell others about your status. You may inspire others to live positively.
Leisure
Avoid alcohol, smoking and other harmful substances. Have enough rest. Socialise and avoid isolating yourself. Be determined to have a fulfilling life and avoid self-stigmatisation. Keep faith in God, pray and seek counselling from religious leaders. It all helps.