Stress?

[Loa111]

Obviously when we all find out we're positive as a new Dx...it is very stressful, worrying & a time of anxiety. Perhaps having an advanced case of hiv (aids) is even more stressful with all the illness.

I've think I've handled my advanced Dx reasonably well considering, however I find recently I'm more stressed.  Normally I am the stiff upper lip/take it on the chin and get on with it type...I still am, though I find in recent weeks with my meds change, multiple trips back to the clinic, feeling like a pin cushion with all the blood draws, being tired & fatigued a lot, and the logistics of it, missing time from work, not feeling like working, working on half power if that...I'm actually starting to feel a bit stressed in recent weeks, and probably have been much more stressed than I even acknowledge! Even day to day annoyances are starting to niggle me more than they should.

I am trying now not to put too much expectations on myself, rest up more, pray to a higher power.

I do feel a bit down at the moment which is not usually me.

I'm hoping this unfun phase of life and the stress will pass by soon.

[Jim Allen]

Hiya

Sorry to hear about this, it sounds like you are going through a rough time and are still digesting your HIV diagnosis. Missing time from work is an obvious financial concern, but it adds to the stress, stressing helps noone and it all sounds like a bit of a vicious cycle or the potential start of one.

There is plenty you can do to reduce stress levels but it varies from person to person what works etc and the causes.

Exercise, join a gym or run in the park.
Taking time for yourself, even short walks on breaks during the day
Eat well, eat healthy
Plenty of sleep/Rest
Avoid isolation, socialize. Friends etc but also perhaps peer support groups.

There are plenty of tips in the two threads ive linked at the end this post however my biggest advice is to take your mental wellbeing seriously, speak to your doctor and act sooner rather than later.

Take it easy

Jim


https://forums.poz.com/index.php?topic=69487.0

https://forums.poz.com/index.php?topic=67682.0