How will it affect him? Lifestyle ·
Stigma and negative attitudes
Unfortunately, there is a lot of stigma and discrimination associated with being HIV positive and it may be that your partner will experience this on some level at some point. There are laws and policies to protect people living with HIV, but it can still be distressing to someone living with HIV to experience negative attitudes and prejudice.
You may find that people assume you are also positive just because of your relationship, even if you aren’t.
Work
With the advancements in HIV treatment, there is little or no reason for people to be signed off long-term sickness. Many people who are diagnosed with HIV continue to work as they did before they were diagnosed.
Where HIV can impact on someone’s working life is when they need time off for hospital appointments or during longer or more frequent periods of ill health.
They don’t have to tell anyone at work. However, for the above reason, it is helpful for at least one person, for example someone from occupational health, to know. It is entirely up to your partner to make that decision.
There are benefits and financial assistance available for people living with HIV. This advice and support is available to those who are working and also those who are not.
(Link to advice and support page within HIV and Work section)
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