HIV Disease and AIDS

Arm yourself! Learn all you can about HIV and AIDS.

Stay active physically and mentally. Don't stop working unless it's a medical necessity. Exercise regularly. Find an activity that you enjoy and do it.

Eat well. Make good nutrition a habit. Take vitamins.

Find out what stresses you out! And take control. Above all, don't frustrate yourself with troubling questions that have no answers, like "Why me?"

Don't waste your time or energy on anger.

Learn to relax.

Lean on others. Find a support group you feel comfortable with.

Don't hide the truth from your family. Tell them early, so you'll know if they'll be there for you if you need them.

Avoid people who bring you down and those who try to make you feel guilty.

Tell friends and the people you work with only if you feel you can trust them. Otherwise, don't bother.

Listen to your doctor. But don't be afraid to ask questions, too. Most of all, make sure you get answers.

Don't just hope for miracles, make your own! Believe in yourself. You've still got a lot to give – and a lot to do. So get to it!