Question
Can I keep my status a secret?
22 March 2023. Related: All topics, Disclosure, Newly diagnosed, Starting treatment.
I just found out I am HIV + and my CD4 count was 544. I have no one to talk to because I am not in a position to explain myself, is it okay to keep it a secret? are there any unfamiliarities that I should expect from taking the medication?
Answer
Hi, how are you doing?
Have you been able to access any support since finding out your status? e.g., online, your doctor, support groups?
It is okay to keep it a secret. If you are not comfortable in sharing your status you do not need to. There are some laws depending on where you are that require disclosure before marriage/travel/work but if none of these situations currently apply you do not need to inform anyone of your status.
Telling people is personal and you should only do this if you want to and you feel safe to do so.
What is the name of the treatment you have been given? Different types of HIV drug can cause different side effects – not everyone will experience side effects. In general most people find that they have no problem taking their medication and it becomes an inbuilt part of their day without it having an effect on their life.
Josh.
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