Afraid of What?!

When we think about HIV, why are people so afraid of these 3 letters? When we think about HIV why does it seem so taboo? When we think about HIV why are people afraid to get tested?

People are afraid of HIV because in the 80s there were individuals who were passing away 1 by 1. No one knew what the cause was. Now remember, people fear what they don't know, scared of something being out of the norm in society's eyes or being different.

I say taboo because it's like being forbidden to be associated with or around someone who is living with HIV and since others are not educated, they feel that being next to someone living with HIV will cause them to contract it.

Stereotypes, stigma, and sexual health

There is a thing called HIV phobia, but a person should take those stereotypes away and be sure to take care of their sexual health. We can be afraid of what we don't know and that can cause fear, but educating yourself on HIV is the best knowledge of all. Being informed helps not only addresses the stigma but normalize getting tested.

Over the years HIV has changed and this is because of the advancements in medication, but that still does not help the world see HIV in a different light. Now does it!

People are afraid of getting tested because they fear what the results may be. Stigma also prevents one from testing, it's the fear of being judged by others or discriminated against. Why do we always have to listen to the views of others? All it takes is to get the knowledge you need to learn about a virus that is no longer taking people's lives, but more importantly, it's best to know your HIV status.

Necessary, proper care

What is causing people to lose their lives from HIV is the question we should be asking. Stigma is one. The other is not wanting to get tested so a person can have the proper care that is needed to stay alive.

Don't look at getting tested as this fearful thing. Look at it and say, "I am doing this because I must. I am doing this because it is part of me taking care of my sexual health, and I am being smart."

Look at it as it is better to know than not so you can live a long life. Nothing is over for you if you have contracted HIV, and please do not allow shame about who you are to dictate how you move through life. There is nothing to be ashamed of, and this is because HIV affects everyone as a whole and it is not your fault.

You don't have to be afraid of getting tested

I say suck up the fear and take that test! Please don't worry because things are going to be simply fine, and I know this because I have lived with HIV for 26 years. I had a baby who was born negative and is now 21 years old. I have also been married twice. You see the world only stops around you if you let it stop, and getting tested will only help you in the long run.

Afraid? Afraid of what? Afraid of knowing is not the issue, it's not knowing that is the bigger issue. You can be the one who convinces your family and close friends about why it is so important to get tested.

Be the change in the lives of the people you love.