HIV/AIDS Ask an Expert: How Can I Overcome the HIV Stigma? By Verywell Health Editors Updated on November 14, 2022 Fact checked by Nick Blackmer Fact checked by Nick Blackmer LinkedIn Nick Blackmer is a librarian, fact-checker, and researcher with more than 20 years’ experience in consumer-oriented health and wellness content. Learn about our editorial process Print This article is part of Health Divide: HIV, a destination in our Health Divide series. Xiaoyu Liu / Verywell Verywell Health: How can I overcome the HIV stigma? Dr. Shepherd: When someone has been diagnosed with HIV, it can take time before they are comfortable with their diagnosis and before they can discuss their diagnosis with other people. Even if they do disclose their diagnosis with their friends, families, or possible partners, it’s a lifelong journey that requires overcoming the stigma that a person might have against themselves. They will also have to confront discrimination from others. That requires trying to avoid falling into a sphere of depression, anxiety, or self-shame when another person creates an environment of stigma and discrimination. Coping and Living with HIV Overcoming the stigma associated with HIV is a community effort. This is something that everyone needs to be involved in, not just the person with the diagnosis. This is going to be required of healthcare providers, support systems, families, and also society. All of us have the ability to create biases, and we can take steps to minimize the stigma and support people who have this diagnosis. That’s why it’s a community issue and a public health issue. Overcoming the HIV-Related Stigma See Our Editorial Process Meet Our Medical Expert Board Share Feedback Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! What is your feedback? Other Helpful Report an Error Submit