WHAT IS FOLLOW UP COUNSELLING?
Most government clinics and many non-profit organizations, sometimes referred to as satellite clinics, offer these counseling sessions free of charge. For those who are able to afford counseling a trained psychologist or physiatrist will be able to assist.
WHAT TOPICS CAN I GET HELP WITH IN THE SESSION?
As HIV is not necessarily an acute illness, there is so much to know about the illness that it needs a number of sessions to cover every topic.
Issues that may come up for discussion may be:
- whom to disclose your HIV status, when and how
- how to live emotionally positively and not fear every small sign of illness
- how to regain confidence and self-esteem
- how to deal with relationships
- how to care for yourself physically and mentally, including a healthy diet and
lifestyle
- advice on a balanced exercise programme
- suggestions on regular medical check ups and advice on what medical help is
available and where to find it
- how to proceed with life as normal as possible
- how to prepare for the future, finances, career etc.
- how and where to meet people living with HIV
- how to prevent the spread of HIV to others, especially your sexual partner
It is important to have a counsellor who understands your language and
culture. Ask for such a person when you go for HIV testing. You might feel
more comfortable discussing personal issues.
****In the database SEARCH under category Counselling(In-Depth) and the AREA you are in. If nothing comes up in that area please search under All Areas.
