When you and your health care provider decide the time is right for you to start treatment, there are things you can do to set yourself up for success. The first step is to think positively. Having the right attitude going in will help you get the most out of your treatment. Remind yourself that:
- Starting treatment is the right decision for your health
- The HIV drugs will help you fight the virus
- You can take your medications the right way
It takes a lot of commitment to stick to a treatment regimen (combination of HIV drugs). Don’t go it alone. Your health care provider is an important support and so are other people such as nurses, social workers, therapists, and case managers. You may want to join a support group for people living with HIV (HIV+ people). Family and friends can help too.
It can be tough to stick with a treatment regimen if you need to work on other issues in your life. If you feel down a lot of the time, and don’t enjoy things that you used to enjoy, you may be depressed. That’s an issue that should be addressed before you start HIV drugs. The same goes for a substance abuse problem.
Tell your health care provider if you have other health problems, are taking any other medications (including over the counter, herbal, alternative, and street drugs), or are in any recovery programs. This is important information that may affect your treatment options. In addition, discuss family planning with your health care provider since HIV drugs can interfere with birth control pills and pregnant women should not take certain HIV drugs.
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