Finding out that you have HIV can be difficult. It’s likely you will need to make changes to the way you live and work, and your relationships with partners, family and friends. Take your time making decisions about the future – you don’t have to rush into making decisions all at once.
It’s important to remember that you are not alone. Thousands of people in Australia are living with HIV, including many heterosexual women and men.
If you need help or just want to talk to someone, there are a number of confidential support services available.
Pozhet
We can help you, your partners and family:
- find a good doctor
- get correct and up-to-date information
- learn about how and when to tell others
- be informed about HIV and how to prevent passing it on
- find services that can speak your language
- access social workers or counsellors
- find contacts for legal assistance and housing
- attend events with other people living with HIV
1800 812 404
pozhet.org.au
Positive Life NSW
You can speak to a Treatments Officer or a Peer Support Officer (another person living with HIV).
(02) 8357 8386
positivelife.org.au/
ACON New Diagnosis Priority Service | ACON counselling services
Contact the ACON Intake and Assessment Officer for more information.
9206 2000 (Sydney), 1800 063 060 (outside Sydney) or 9283 2053 (for the deaf)
acon.org.au
Albion Street Centre
Counselling, care and support for people living with HIV.
9332 9600
thealbioncentre…/psychology/
Beyondblue InfoLine
Information, advice and referrals around depression, anxiety and related disorders.
1300 224 636
beyondblue.org.au
Lifeline
If you are feeling down, think that it is all too hard or feel like you can’t cope, you can call Lifeline, 24/7 any day of the week for confidential, emotional support.
13 11 14
lifeline.org.au
The above information is adapted from Multicultural HIV and Hepatitis Service website, mhahs.org.au