HIV Diagnosis

Find a Support System

Parents, partners, family members or friends can be your greatest support when dealing with a HIV diagnosis. However, your circumstances may make you feel like you need an independent person outside your family and social circles, at least initially. You may find a counsellor or social worker helpful. We provide a professional and affordable counselling service here at Thorne Harbour.

Think about Disclosing Your HIV Status

Think about who you want to disclose your HIV status to. Do not disclose until you feel the time is right. Who should I Tell by The National Association of People Living with HIV/AIDS (NAPWA) may help you with this decision.

Get Information About HIV

Learning and understanding as much as you can about HIV can help lessen the anxiety and worry. Talk to a doctor you are confident with. If you don't already have a doctor with whom you have a good relationship, perhaps our Centre Clinic can help. The Centre Clinic is a community health service for people living with HIV and the broader LGBTIQ+ community, but open to all.

Talk to People Who Understand

We also provide one-on-one support, advice and information to people living with HIV who would like to talk to someone who understands their situation. Our HIV Peer Support Health Promotion Officer works from the Positive Living Centre (PLC), providing education, social, emotional and practical support. Our peer support groups offer a safe, supportive environment where topics such as treatments, relationships, disclosure, self-confidence, friendships and sexuality can be explored.

Choose a Doctor

While some people decide to stay with their family doctor, you may want to change to someone who specialises in HIV. That way you get care from someone who is aware of the latest medical facts. Again, our Centre Clinic may be right for you.

Seek HIV Treatment

HIV treatment has greatly improved. Studies have shown that there is a real benefit to early treatment, the earlier the better. It is a personal decision though, and perhaps the most important factor to consider is whether you are ready to start treatment. There are a variety of effective drugs that are easy to take, meaning that treating HIV has never been simpler, and will make a real difference to your health and wellbeing. For more info about Treatment check out TreatHIVnow.