Some of you may be fortunate enough to manage life without really experiencing or needing support. However receiving an HIV diagnosis can be one of those times when you wished you had support in place. Ordinary life experiences do not usually provide us with opportunities to rehearse facing our own mortality or understanding the intricacies of HIV treatments and are examples of times when we might need support and education.
Individuals have their own attitudes around support. For some people, a problem shared is a problem halved but for others they would prefer having to deal with issues on their own.
Very soon after being diagnosed with HIV, I was referred to counselling. This HIV-experienced professional counsellor listened to my concerns and problem solved with me as I waded through the implications of my diagnosis. It was a crucial first step in accepting my diagnosis and taking the necessary actions to set up a supportive network around me. Currently, counselling for me is more a strength-building exercise and a prevention strategy rather than a crisis service used when in emotional turmoil. WA is fortunate to have HIV-experienced professional counsellors at Royal Perth Hospital Sexual Health Clinic and the WA AIDS Council.
Through the counsellor I was linked into a support group for people with HIV and I participated in HIV wellbeing retreats Rocking up to a support group for the first time can be somewhat nerve racking with thoughts such as ‘Who else will be there?’, ‘I don’t want people I know to find out about my HIV status’, ‘I hope no one else is too ill – I couldn’t cope with that right now’ running through your head. Some of these anxieties, fears and questions can be alleviated when individuals meet the facilitator of the group or retreat and provided with the opportunity to ask questions. .
I found these services to be extremely beneficial as I met other people who provided support and encouragement as well as information and education. At present, WAAC facilitates an online chat and support group called Pos Cyber Chat. This operates once a week and links HIV positive people in need of support. WAAC is also offering the opportunity to attend the ‘Aspire’ HIV well being retreat beginning on the 21st of September. There are 30 places and if you are interested you can ring me on 9482 0000.
Another important source of support is friends. Not all friends provide support, as some friendships are based only in having a good time and don’t have the capacity to be supportive. Other times we reject friendship and support if it doesn’t happen immediately and in the way we expect. We all have lives to lead and, in my experience, it has been important to respect a friend if they are not able to help straight away. For some it takes courage to ask another friend for help when you have been turned down before. Remaining open minded often leads to receiving support where you least expect to receive it. Nurturing friendships can be emotionally fulfilling especially when you get the chance to return the favour. Challenges are a normal part of life. Making the journey a joy is what supportive friendships are about.
You can discuss issues raised or upcoming columns with Cipri via livingwellwithHIV@www.outinperth.com. For further information on WAAC and the range of support services they have available you can visit www.waaids.com or call (08) 9482 0000.
