By: Jennifer McMillen Smith, MSSA, LISW-S, Division of Infectious Disease and medically reviewed by Ann Avery, Infectious Disease Physician at Metrohealth Medical Center
It’s natural to be afraid of dying when you first get diagnosed with HIV. Most people don’t know that we’ve had amazing advances in HIV medicine that allow people to live long, healthy lives.
Although it might sound strange, a little fear can be good for your health. It means deep down you want to stay on this planet and it can motivate you to take action.
You have control over both your health and your fear.
It’s not about fear: It’s about respect
HIV is not a leopard hiding behind a bush waiting to kill you with no warning. HIV is a known risk, once you’ve been diagnosed. That’s something to respect, not something to fear.
When you think of it that way, it might be a little easier to face your fear of dying from HIV.
Too much fear can keep you from getting on with your life. It raises all sorts of frightening uncertainties:
Can you finish your education if you have HIV?
Yes.
Can you have a fun, active sex life?
Yes.
Can you have kids?
Yes.
Can you advance in your career?
Yes.
Can you live to be an old person someday?
Yes.
You get the idea.
Come join our private, stigma-free, supportive community.
Health management tools with medication & appointment reminders.
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How can I overcome my fear of dying from HIV?
It’s okay to be afraid, these fears will eventually go away. But if you’re somebody who wants to face their fears sooner rather than later – here are a few things that have helped others:
- Learn about HIV & start treatment. HIV is just a virus that has certain habits. When you know these habits, you realize you don't need to fear them. Know thy enemy 😉
- Find a support system. Maybe join an HIV support group. Talking with others who are living through what you’re feeling right now can help you understand what it all means. This is huge!
- Get some exercise! Going for a walk will help soothe your fears. Going for a run will release some feel-good endorphins. Lifting some weights will help you feel strong.
- Find a quiet place where you can just relax and let your mind rest. Meditation can take practice, but there are plenty of guided mediations on Youtube – find one you like!
A little fear at first is normal, it helps you to learn and respect the risks. It can also motivate you to take your meds and change bad habits like eating a lot of fatty foods or smoking.
Just remember: HIV is no longer considered a terminal illness. If you consistently stay on your HIV meds, your HIV never has to develop into AIDS. Even if you’ve already been diagnosed with AIDS, taking meds can suppress the virus and help your immune system return back to normal or near-normal levels. Thanks to amazing medical advances, now people live long, healthy lives with HIV.
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