Now That You Know

HIV-positive author Timothy Critzer offers up the following tips for newly diagnosed people to live fuller, healthier lives: ''Acknowledge your fears and feelings about having HIV and take ownership of them. ''Instead of dwelling on regrets of the past or imagining a grim future for yourself, keep your mind focused on the present and what you are doing today to improve your life. ''Forget about other people's stories about HIV and focus on your own experiences. ''Whenever you feel stressed, anxious, or overwhelmed, stop and focus on your breathing to clear your mind. ''Control the flow of information you absorb about HIV to prevent yourself from overloading on information or from slipping into denial about being HIV-positive. ''Never forget that you are in complete control of your medical treatment and that you can change it at any time. ''Rely on a support network of family and friends to remind yourself that you're not facing your illness alone. ''Work to build a strong foundation for your future, including making lifestyle changes and using community resources to support long-term health. ''Spend some time managing how HIV affects your daily life in terms of social situations as well as financial and legal matters. ''Strive to balance your mind, body, and spirit through such activities as exploring your spirituality, doing volunteer work, or trying holistic therapy. SOURCE: I Just Found Out I Have HIV'Now What? book and workbook by Timothy Critzer