Family and friends

Family and friends are often the first place people with HIV turn to for support. Millions of people with HIV around the world are loved and accepted by those closest to them. The knowledge that those you love and know best are there when you need them can not only provide comfort but also the confidence and strength to deal with stigma and discrimination in the wider community.

Many people find it difficult to tell their family, loved ones and close friends that they have HIV. But it can be worthwhile because of the support it can unlock.

Even if someone reacts badly when they first find out that you have HIV, their attitude might change over time.

But that’s not to deny that some people have reported that their relationships with their family or friends have got worse in either the short- or long-term because they have HIV.

If you don’t feel able to trust or rely on family or friends then it’s good to know that specialist HIV organisations can help. If you feel that you are alone, try and remember that you are not. There’s a lot of help available to you.