Living with HIV

A positive HIV test usually causes an initial shock for most people. Many experience fear of illness and death, making it difficult to imagine how life will continue. Desires for a happy relationship, a healthy sex life, and perhaps children suddenly seem impossible to fulfill.

If you are currently in this situation, you are in the right place. We provide information on what it means to live with HIV today and where you can find support.

First and foremost: your life is definitely not over! On the contrary, you can continue living much as you did before in many ways, and almost all possibilities remain open to you.

Today, highly effective medications allow most people with HIV to live an almost normal life and prevent the onset of AIDS. If you were infected in recent years, your life expectancy is likely hardly lower than that of anyone else.

What will change?

Of course, life with HIV will bring some changes. Regular medical check-ups will be necessary, and at some point, you will start taking medication for HIV.

You will also likely wonder whom you want or need to talk to about your infection. Living with HIV will not always be easy, but these challenges can be managed. You are not alone in this.

There are many peer support groups in Germany where you can meet other people with HIV. The Buddy Project allows for direct contact with other people living with HIV. Counselors at AIDS service organizations will also be by your side if you want them to be. Last but not least, a good doctor can also provide a great deal of support.