Although receiving an HIV or AIDS diagnosis is scary and should be cause for concern, a positive test result isn’t nearly as lethal as it used to be. Thanks to over 30 years of advances in antiretroviral treatments, living with HIV has become manageable, with many diagnosed individuals maintaining near-normal lives.

While your healthcare provider will work hard to develop a robust treatment plan that’ll protect your body against the virus, it can sometimes be challenging to know what to do with yourself in between appointments.

Remember that you are not the first, nor the last, to struggle with this sudden news. You’re not alone, and there are ways to make living with HIV easier.

The Importance of Medication Adherence

If you’ve received a positive HIV diagnosis, your healthcare provider will promptly start you on a treatment plan that can involve rigorous medication regimens. As a result, patients can sometimes struggle to adjust to a sudden and dramatic life change and this new responsibility. It’s alright to acknowledge and even be frustrated with the difficulty of this change, but it’s important to remember that your well-being depends on your adherence to your medications. Missing even one dose can hurt your chances of improving.

To ensure your well-being, it's crucial to establish a consistent routine and follow your medicine schedule to the letter. Antiretroviral therapy can prevent the disease from progressing and may reduce your risk of transmission to others. A study by the CDC found partners of patients who medically suppressed their viral load didn’t contract the virus (Undetectable = Untransmittable, or U=U), which can make it easier for those with HIV to form and maintain relationships.

It’s essential that you regularly and openly inform your healthcare provider about any concerns or side effects to ensure your prescriptions are performing optimally. Maintaining an open dialogue allows your provider to get you on a new prescription immediately if necessary.

Preserve Your Health

One of the best ways to keep your viral load low is to stay healthy. Eating a balanced diet, avoiding excessive alcohol consumption and drug use, exercising regularly and getting sufficient sleep can enhance your immune system, which is essential when battling HIV. By taking the time to care for yourself, you can continue to live a long and fulfilling life even after your diagnosis.

While physically managing an HIV diagnosis has become a lot easier as you adjust, handling it mentally is an entirely different hurdle that many patients understandably struggle with. People with HIV typically have a higher chance of developing mood, anxiety and cognitive disorders, with depression being especially prevalent.

Emotional well-being is interconnected with physical health, meaning you can’t protect one without acknowledging the other. Just as activities that can build up your physical health can also improve your mental health, such as exercise and eating well, adopting or continuing unhealthy habits can lead to negative psychological outcomes.

Seeking support from others, whether they’re friends, family or mental health professionals, can provide invaluable help with managing your emotional and psychological health during a challenging time.

At St. Hope Pharmacy, our experienced pharmacists will be with you through every step of your diagnosis, ensuring you’re always informed about your prescriptions. Our connected healthcare providers boast an expansive roster of compassionate specialists who can assist you with your mental and physical struggles at any time.

Can I Date With HIV?

Dating responsibly and safely with HIV is possible. Many people with HIV lead satisfying romantic lives, but on top of strict medication adherence, it also requires open communication, trust and accountability. Understanding the risks and taking appropriate preventive measures – including staying on top of your treatment and practicing safe sex – can contribute to healthy and fulfilling relationships.

Receive Prompt Service From an Open-Door Pharmacy Experienced in HIV Treatments

As a full-service pharmacy, St. Hope Pharmacy can fill your prescriptions and help guide you through your treatment plan, whether you’re a patient at St. Hope Healthcare or not. Our pharmacists will help you better understand your medications and work with other doctors at St. Hope Healthcare to deliver comprehensive HIV treatment and management services so you can continue living a healthy and fulfilling life.

Contact your nearest St. Hope pharmacy in Bellaire, Conroe, Houston, Sugar Land or Dickinson to learn about transferring prescriptions or schedule a consultation with one of our expert pharmacists today.