Chronicle Of A Person Living With A Positive Status

I met a guy at the centre sometime ago, he came for hiv test, and he was looking so tense and scared...

I guess he was already expecting a positive test. But I already knew he was negative cos I saw when the lady was checking his test slip and started writing his results immediately cos if it was positive they won't write it immediately until they take another test with Eliza to confirm the status.

Instead of the lady to give him his result immediately, she started counselling again, I was already thinking if she wants the guy to die of hbp cos only God knows what will be going on in that guy's mind.. 

She eventually handed him his result and urged him to open it, the guys hands were shaking while opening, you can imagine his joy when he saw negative. He almost hugged the lady, he was told to come back after 3 months to be sure he's not in window period but he said he hasn't been with any lady for a while but they still insisted cos hiv isn't transmitted through sxx only. 

He said as from that period he'll be more careful o, that he's been scared for a long time but he decided to summon the courage that day.

This is why HIV testing is so important. Knowing your status removes the constant fear of the unknown. It helps people stop imagining the worst. For those who test negative it becomes a wake up call to protect themselves. For those who test positive it opens the door to early treatment support and a healthy life.

Untested fear is heavy. It affects sleep concentration relationships and self esteem. Many people live for years with anxiety simply because they are afraid to test. Some avoid relationships some live in denial and others carry guilt that eats away at their mental wellbeing.

Testing brings truth. Truth brings direction. And direction brings peace.
We need to talk more about this. HIV testing is not about judgement. It is not about shame. It is an act of self care and courage. It is choosing your mental health as much as your physical health.

If you are scared to test know that you are not alone. But also know that fear grows in silence. Getting tested could be the first step to freedom whether that freedom comes as reassurance or as access to care.