How to Support a Loved One Living with HIV

“I’m hopeful that HIV in 10 years will be the history of the 80s,” is the thought that comes to Jose Ramos’ mind when talking about the movement, community support and treatment options that have been created over the years around HIV. 

When we have someone who gets a positive HIV diagnosis, our first instinct might be to send a message and be there for them in a non-judgemental way. However, we can take it a step further, according to our experts featured on the second episode of Living Y Ready,

This time, we sit down with José Ramos, National Director of Sales at AHF.org, Dr. Hilda Sandoval, PhD, Director of Behavioral Health Programs at JWCH Institute, Inc., Psychologist Ray Fernandez, AMFT and Natalie Sanchez, Director of UCLA Family AIDS Network.

“How about asking: ‘how are you doing today’? ‘How is your journey’?,” says Dr. Hilda Sandoval, who recommends being mindful of the different levels of someone being diagnosed, whether it’s an early stage or they have been living with it for years. “As we move in the journey of someone with HIV is ‘How do you thrive, how do you live with it and manage while living your life in the best possible way,” she adds. 

You, or someone you know has been diagnosed with HIV—now what? 

The most important thing after someone is diagnosed with HIV, to keep healthy and safe from transmitting HIV. It’s also crucial to go to treatment and get linked into care. There are many ways of getting treated nowadays, yet 40% of Americans are not in treatment. Furthermore, the ways in which we offer support are critical. 

“Be diagnosed. Get into care. Stay in care. These are the reason and things people can do to stay hopeful and engaged in their health.” – Jose Ramos

Here are a few of our suggestions from our experts:

• Get educated: Stop using stigmatizing comments and understand the reality
• Listen to the person: they’re the ones who have the diagnosis. 
• Don’t try to fix it right away: Support them, they just need someone to talk to.
• Engage and focus on what really matters: Keep the person feeling loved and healthy
• Use the resources: There are facilities where families can come and ask questions.

We’re providing you with all the info and tools you need. From getting tested, getting educated and providing support.  Learn how to join the movement in an all-new Living Y Ready episode!