Women with HIV often report experiencing feelings of isolation, depression, loss of sleep and anxiety on diagnosis. An HIV diagnosis is a life-changing event and these responses are not unexpected. Sometimes support from others with HIV, friends and family is sufficient to help you find a way forward, but you may also want to see a counsellor or therapist at some point, or need some medication to help with depression or other mental health problems.

And don't forget your own health needs even if you have responsibilities for looking after others.

Your HIV clinic or GP may be able to refer you to specialist services. You can contact a support organisation providing these services.

You can also find out more about emotional and mental health, and get more information on how to access different mental health services and treatments, in NAM’s booklet HIV, mental health and emotional wellbeing.