An HIV diagnosis changes your life. Even so, these HIV blogs
can help you keep an upbeat mindset. While there’s no cure for HIV, treatment
can extend your life and possibly delay the onset of AIDS. You may have ups and
down, but it’s possible to live a relatively healthy life. The key is taking
care of yourself and educating yourself.
Talking with your doctor, family, and friends can provide
emotional support. It also helps to seek support from those who empathize with
your situation, like these blogs below.
The Body: HIV/AIDS Blog Central
The Body is a comprehensive resource for HIV. You’ll find a
variety of articles about treatment, diagnosis, prevention, and living with the
virus. The blog also features a variety of personal stories about healthcare
issues, imprisonment, and advocacy. The Body also encourages patients to
continue in their fight.
Tweet them @TheBodyDotCom
POZ
Staying up-to-date on new developments in the HIV world is a
key component to managing your health. This blog offers information on upcoming
HIV events, statistics, news, and trends. They also offer health management
tips, like the effects of drinking alcohol when you have HIV.
Tweet them @pozmagazine
Justin’s HIV Journal
Justin B. Terry-Smith
Justin B. Terry-Smith isn't afraid to open up about his
diagnosis of HIV. He uses his blog as a platform to educate others on the
importance of safe sex with the hope of helping at least one person. His words
are honest and informative. Despite his diagnosis, he's committed to
celebrating life.
Tweet him @JustinBSmith79
My Journey with
Kenn Chaplin received an HIV diagnosis in 1989. Despite some
serious setbacks with his health, he enjoys sharing experiences related to his
health, family, and personal life. His openness and positive attitude can
empower and give strength to readers who are in similar situations.
Living in the Bonus Round
Steve Schalchlin received an HIV diagnosis in 1996. As a way
to cope with his diagnosis, he started journaling about his health and writing
healing songs. Read about his experiences rehearsing for shows, his thoughts on
the current state of the political scene, and about the people and musicians
who inspire him.
AIDS.gov Blog
The blog operated by AIDS.gov provides a wealth of material
and resources. Whether you're searching for information on AIDS research,
global news, or trending topics, it’s here. Read about an HIV program for
improving long-term care for youths or make a mental note of HIV Vaccine
Awareness Day and learn more about antiretroviral therapies.
Tweet them @AIDSgov
I’m Still Josh
Josh Robbins received an HIV diagnosis in 2012. Although
receiving a diagnosis can be upsetting, his optimism is contagious. He doesn't
think of HIV as a death sentence, nor does he allow the disease to define him.
Josh encourages other people living with HIV to live in the moment. His blog
features HIV news stories and words of encouragement to uplift readers.
Tweet him @imstilljosh
My Fabulous Disease
Mark S. King has lived with HIV since 1985. After receiving
his diagnosis, he became an advocate for others living with HIV. His blog is a
tool for bringing awareness and inspiring others. In recent posts, Mark
highlights the top HIV advocates to watch in 2017 and brings attention to a
film unmasking the fear behind HIV criminalization.
Tweet him @MyFabDisease
NEJM Journal Watch
Dr. Paul E. Sax is the clinical director of the HIV Program
and Division of Infectious Diseases at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston.
He has a strong interest in HIV research. His blog offers a series of
informative posts related to treatment, management, and clinical trials. He
shares the latest HIV research and news stories as well as experiences from his
personal life.
More Than HIV
Brian Ledford acknowledges how receiving his diagnosis in
2010 changed his life. He started blogging to share his story and experiences
and motivates others to live life. His posts reveal his personal struggles and
give attention to others living with the virus.
Tweet him @MoreThanHIV
HIV/AIDS Advice by Verywell
This blog is an excellent resource for finding satisfying
answers to questions about symptoms, treatments, and associated conditions.
You'll find interesting articles like what to do if you have HIV and diarrhea
as well as information on eye problems associated with HIV.
A Girl Like Me
If you're a woman living with HIV, this blog by The Well
Project is a wonderful resource. Read personal stories of other people living
with the same questions, challenges, and daily experiences, from healthcare
issues to dealing with uninformed comments. Share your story and find
inspiration and motivation from the multitude of perspectives represented here.
Tweet them @thewellproject
HIV Negative Spouses
HIV can affect an entire family, even if only one person
actually lives with the virus. This blog puts the spotlight on HIV-negative
people who have HIV-positive partners. Read about their low points or check out
their experiences with PrEP, an anti-HIV medication.
HIV and Hepatitis
This blog covers a host of topics pertaining to HIV and
AIDS. Here, you’ll find information on the latest developments in research,
treatment, and management, as well as advice on common concerns among people
affected by HIV, such as using PrEP.
Tweet them @HIVandHepatitis
Positive Lite
This blog was founded by Brian Finch, who’s been
HIV-positive for over 25 years. As an informational source for issues and
topics related to the virus, the blog offers a wealth of lifestyle pieces, news
stories, health advice, and general tips for living with HIV. It’s an excellent
place to increase your knowledge and receive support.
Tweet them @PositiveLiteCom
BETA Blog
This blog is dedicated to providing education and helping
readers gain a better understanding of HIV treatment and management. Read
HIV-related articles written by individuals knowledgeable in the field. The
blog’s contributors include researchers, advocates, and health professionals.
NAM aidsmap
Knowledge is crucial for those living with HIV. This blog
has no short supply of educational material and news stories, like one article
on how people with HIV can have impaired respiratory health even when viral
load is undetectable. Learn about HIV basics like symptoms and life expectancy
or take advantage of their resources that include fact sheets, apps, and
booklets.
Tweet them @aidsmap_news
Okay, now there are many sexually transmitted infections
(STIs) that we have to be conscious of and herpes is no exception to that rule.
As most of you know I tend to put a little humor in my columns so bear with
me…or not; it’s going to happen anyway. So, I’m just going to go right into to
it. Here are my top 7 things about the gift that keeps on giving that you need
to understand:
