Common emotions after being diagnosed with HIV are sadness and grief.

This sadness and grief may be present for a while but gradually goes away as time passes and you adjust to accepting, understanding and effectively coping with your diagnosis.

Depression occurs when you no longer have the capacity to effectively manage the emotions for yourself and they begin to negatively impact your life.

Symptoms of Depression

Overall depressed mood

Loss of interest or pleasure in activities you enjoyed before your HIV positive diagnosis

Suicidal thoughts or feelings

Feelings of guilt and remorse

Not feeling to eat or overeating

Sleep disturbance

Sleep disturbance

Attention and concentration problems

Feeling tired, sluggish or easily fatigued

Feelings of hoplessness

Social isolation

Persistent agitation

Not wanting to socialize with friends or family

Crying especially when alone and for no reason

Easily agitated and moody

Using substances like pills, alcohol, drugs to cope with painful feelings

Decreased sex drive

There are many treatment options available to help you cope with your depression, which in turn can improve your HIV prognosis as well. Anti-depressants and lifestyle can be effective in helping you cope with depression.

Make an appointment