Receiving an HIV diagnosis can bring up a lot of emotions. You might feel shocked, worried, confused or uncertain about what the future will look like. Even after living with HIV for some time, there may be days when negative thoughts, stigma or other people’s assumptions make HIV feel bigger than it really is.
This resource has been developed to help people living with HIV challenge the way we see ourselves following a diagnosis and reflect on the many things that make us who we are.
Because while a HIV diagnosis may change some things, it doesn’t change who you are.
Your life, your personality, your interests, your hopes and your dreams are still there. You are still you.
You are more than a diagnosis
You are a friend, a child, a parent, a partner, a colleague, a community member, a creative person, a worker, a dreamer — and so much more.
Your diagnosis doesn’t erase the experiences, strengths and values that make you who you are.
Challenge the way you see yourself
Sometimes, a HIV diagnosis can change the way we see ourselves. Stigma — whether it comes from other people or from the thoughts we carry ourselves — can make us question our self-worth or imagine that our lives are now defined by HIV.
We encourage you to pause and challenge those thoughts.
Ask yourself:
Is this thought a fact, or is it fear talking?
Instead of:
“HIV defines who I am.”
Try:
“HIV is just one part of my life, but it isn’t my whole story.”
Instead of:
“Everything has changed.”
Try:
“Some things may have changed, but the person I am hasn’t”
Remember that life exists beyond HIV
It can be easy to focus on HIV, appointments, treatment, health and the emotions that can come with a diagnosis, but continue to think about who you were before HIV became part of your story.
What did you enjoy?
Who did you love?
What made you laugh?
What were you proud of?
What were your hopes and dreams?
Living with HIV doesn’t mean putting your life on hold. You can continue to build relationships, pursue your goals, enjoy the things that matter to you and make plans for the future.
You don’t have to do it alone
There can be enormous strength in connecting with a Peer Navigator at Positive Life NSW – someone who understands what living with HIV is like. Peer support can provide a space to talk openly, ask questions, share experiences and simply be yourself.
You don’t have to have all the answers. You don’t have to feel positive every day. And you don’t have to navigate everything on your own.
Sometimes, the most powerful step is simply reaching out.
And most importantly:
You are more than your diagnosis.
View the full resource: Living with HIV — But Not Defined by It
Reach out and speak with a Peer Navigator
📞 (02) 8357 8386 or 1800 245 677 (freecall)
Monday–Friday, 9 am–5 pm
