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If there is one thing in interviewing people for our Positive Profiles over 16-years that all have had in common, no matter their background, race or gender, it's when they've tried to go it alone, HIV had it's best chance ever at having the upper hand. So what should you look for in a support group or person? Positivity Loyalty Discretion Action and Responsibility Here are some places you can start to look for your personal support group and network: HIV Specialist and Medical Staff AIDS Service Organizations, Community Organizations and Faith Based Organizations The first place that you should go to is an AIDS Service Organization in you area. ASOs, usually depending on the size of the area served, can offer you services like case managers, social workers and benefits counselors who can navigate the red tape associated with getting any benefits you might be eligible for and also help you locate transportation and housing if you need that. Many ASOs also have food pantries. The professionals and volunteers at ASOs can recommend doctors and other health care providers who deal with HIV patients and are nearby. There are also support groups of different kinds that meet regularly. Community Based Organizations are similar to ASOs and offer many of the same services. CBOs might be more comfortable for some because being “community based,” they many times serve a particular community such as African American or Latino, for instance, that is more familiar for them. Faith Based Organizations have really come a long way in most areas. While some churches still are closed-minded to HIV there are many, even in smaller metropolitan areas, that have gotten over the stigma. Most spiritual groups and churches that are HIV-friendly offer an HIV support group and individual counseling. Your ASO should be able to refer you to a Faith Based Organization near you. Family and Friends Make sure that you are ready to tell them that you are HIV positive and also be as sure as you can be that they are ready to hear it. If it’s not the right time to let those close to you know, try to start with a peer or support group. You’ll find people in the same boat as you and will probably find new friends and relationships there. Remember that there is help and support when you need it from the sources mentioned above and always immediate help if you have a crisis from regional, state and national HIV Hotlines. To find a listing of those hotlines go to our website at www.hivpositivemagazine.com/hotlines.html and pick up the phone.
Copyright 2018, Positive Health Publications, Inc. This magazine is intended to enhance your relationship with your doctor - not replace it! Medical treatments and products should always be discussed with a licensed physician who has experience treating HIV and AIDS!
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