AIDS support: what to do now and where to turn
Got an HIV or AIDS diagnosis, or supporting someone who does? The first thing to know: help makes a real difference. Treatment today keeps people healthy for decades, and there are simple steps you can take right now to get stable care, stop illness from getting worse, and find emotional support.
Immediate steps that matter
Get linked to care fast. Contact a local HIV clinic, community health center, or your health department and book an appointment. If there’s been a recent possible exposure, ask about PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) — it works best within 72 hours. If you already have HIV, starting antiretroviral therapy (ART) as soon as possible lowers viral load and prevents progression to AIDS. Bring a list of any meds, allergies, and questions to your first visit.
Medication adherence is everything. Use alarms, pill boxes, or phone apps to stay on schedule. If side effects hit, call your provider — there are often easy adjustments or alternatives. Ask about a case manager or pharmacist who can help coordinate refills and paperwork. If cost is a worry, request patient assistance programs, manufacturer coupons, or clinic-based drug support — many programs exist to reduce or wipe out copays.
Finding emotional, social, and financial help
Dealing with stigma, anxiety, or depression is common. Look for peer support groups—online forums and local HIV service organizations connect you with people who get it. Many clinics offer counseling or can refer you to low-cost therapists. If housing, food, or bills are a stress, ask your clinic about social workers, ADAP-type programs, or community charities that help people living with HIV.
Be careful when buying medications online. Use only licensed pharmacies that require a prescription and show clear contact info. If you use telehealth, confirm the provider is legitimate and your prescription is filled by a verified pharmacy. Your clinic or pharmacist can recommend trusted options.
Thinking about relationships and disclosure? You don’t have to figure it out alone. Ask your provider for counseling on when and how to tell partners. Learn about prevention tools: consistent ART (undetectable = untransmittable), condoms, and for HIV-negative partners, PrEP can reduce risk dramatically.
Want a quick checklist? 1) Get tested and linked to care. 2) Start or continue ART and commit to daily dosing. 3) Ask about PEP if recently exposed. 4) Find a support group or counselor. 5) Look into financial help and safe pharmacy options. 6) Talk with your care team about sexual health and disclosure.
If you need immediate help, call your local health department, an HIV clinic, or a community AIDS service organization. They can set up testing, start treatment, connect you with support groups, and help with medication costs. You don’t have to do this alone—practical help is available and it works.
