Years ago, an HIV diagnosis was life-altering. Those who tested positive might have worried about how their relationships would change, about their physical health, and about transmitting it to others. However, today, many treatments exist for HIV and AIDS that allow those who have tested positive to live long, healthy, meaningful lives. Yet even though HIV is now manageable, those who have an HIV diagnosis can still have concerns about how this will impact their lives.
World AIDS Day, a day of raising awareness of HIV and AIDS prevention and treatment, falls on December 1st. This year, the theme is “Ending the HIV/AIDS Epidemic: Resilience and Impact.” While 2020 has changed the way we interact with each other, it has not changed the reality of HIV and AIDS. Knowing how to support those living with HIV and AIDS and also understanding how to prevent transmission of the virus. Westwind Recovery® is here to help you discover several ways to show support for those around you and how to raise awareness of HIV and AIDS on World AIDS Day.
Support for Those Living with HIV and AIDS
How can you support someone who is living with HIV or AIDS? There are a few simple things you can do to show that you care and that you are there for them.
- Learn more about HIV and AIDS
- Offer emotional support
- Help them with treatment
- Participate in HIV and AIDS awareness events
Educating yourself about HIV and AIDS can be one of the most effective first steps in supporting a loved one. This shows your loved one that you care and can help you provide the support that is right for their unique needs.
Emotional support can take the form of simply listening to your loved one as they process what they are going through. You can accompany them to appointments, ask them how they are doing, and encourage them to go to therapy. Helping your loved one in a luxury rehab treatment center, whether for HIV and AIDS or for substance abuse issues, can be a way to support them as well.
Finally, participating in events such as World AIDS Day can be a way to show your support. A simple social media post can let your loved one know that you care about what they are going through.
HIV and Substance Abuse
While HIV and AIDS can affect anyone, there is a higher risk of infection in those who also struggle with an addiction to drugs or alcohol. One reason for this increased risk is due to exposure to HIV through shared needles during drug use, while another reason is that substance abuse can lower inhibition and increased the likelihood of risky behaviors. Additionally, certain addictions can make the disease progress more quickly.
A substance abuse treatment program can help those who are at a higher risk of being impacted by HIV and AIDS. If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, reach out for help today.
Treatment Programs at Westwind Recovery®
Substance abuse can put you at risk of contracting HIV. Heal from addiction and take back control of your life through treatment programs at Westwind Recovery®. Our luxury treatment center in Los Angeles offers a wide array of treatment programs and therapies that are designed to help individuals meet their unique goals. We understand that there are a number of underlying causes to addiction, and that treatment cannot be one-size-fits-all.
Our treatment programs include:
This World AIDS Day, as we unite to end this epidemic and provide support for those living with HIV and AIDS, reach out to Westwind Recovery®. If you are living with drug and alcohol abuse, it’s possible to break free through treatment. Contact Westwind Recovery® at 855.340.8832 today to learn more.
Dr. Deena is the Chief Clinical Officer of Westwind Recovery®, an award-winning outpatient treatment center in Los Angeles where she oversees the clinical and administrative program and treatment methods. Dr. Deena is a doctor of psychology and licensed clinical social worker since 1993. LCSW #20628. Originally from the East Coast, Dr. Deena has worked running treatment centers, worked as a therapist in psychiatric hospitals as well as school settings and currently has a thriving private practice in the LA area. Dr. Deena has appeared regularly on the Dr. Phil Show as an expert since 2003. She has also been featured on many other TV shows, podcasts and has contributed to written publications as well as podcasts.
