Finding Support After an HIV Diagnosis
by 26Health Staff
For many people, an HIV diagnosis is a life-changing experience. A person may cycle through all of the stages of grief, including shock, sadness, anger, then bargaining. Advances in treatments mean that people diagnosed with HIV can expect to live long and healthy lives, provided they adhere to their medication and treatment plan and take care of themselves both physically and emotionally. In Orlando, there are several groups and organizations providing support to people living with HIV.
Local HIV Resources
1) A.W.A.R.E. – Achieving Wellness and Reaching Excellence. A.W.A.R.E. is a 6-week educational and support group for gay and bisexual men ages 18-30 who have also been recently diagnosed with HIV. Visit http://www.awareorlando.org or email aware@impulsegrp.org for information about the group and upcoming events.
2) RESTART is a support group for HIV positive people that is hosted by Hope & Help. The group meets two Wednesdays each month from 6:15-8:15 pm at the Stafford House next to Miracle of Love; food and beverages are also provided. No need to register, so everyone is welcome at these casual meetings! Bring your friends, family, or anyone else in your support system to learn more about living well with HIV. For more information, email info@hopeandhelp.org.
3) 26Health. You don’t have to be rich or have health insurance to receive excellent counseling services. Here at 26Health, we can connect you with an experienced, HIV-knowledgeable, and LGBTQ+ informed counselor regardless of your ability to pay. Now that money is out of the way, let’s get one thing straight (pardon the pun!): Counseling doesn’t mean you are “crazy!” Having someone to talk to will change your life for the better, and you’ll wish you had done it sooner! Call 26Health at 321-800-2922 to schedule an appointment.
Contact 26Health for Emotional Support
Whether you were recently diagnosed or are concerned that you may have HIV, 26Health is here to support you. Remember that emotional well-being is closely tied to overall physical health. If you are looking for new friends, someone who understands, or just a listening ear, support is a step away.
If you are in crisis, please reach out to the National AIDS Hotline: (800) CDCinfo / (800) 344-7432 (Spanish) / (800) 243-7889 (TDD) https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/library/hotlines.html
Get tested, get results, get answers, and get medication.
Come to 26Health for total HIV support and care.