If you've learned that you’re HIV-positive, here’s the bottom line: you are not alone. In Israel, thousands of people live with HIV, most of them study, work, and lead completely normal lives, including taking medication and undergoing regular checkups. Life expectancy today for someone living with HIV and receiving proper medical care is nearly indistinguishable from the general population—yes, grandchildren are very much in reach.
Coming to terms with a positive result can be a complex, ongoing process—but life continues. Just like any major life event, reactions vary widely: some take time out, others escape into weekend parties; some keep the news private, while others share it with their inner circle. There is no single "right" way to react. It’s important not to deny or suppress the diagnosis, hoping nothing changes. Feelings of sadness, anger, confusion, guilt, or shame are completely natural in the early stages. Over time—and sometimes with support—these feelings tend to subside and life will return to its natural flow.
It doesn’t matter whether you found out yesterday or two months ago. If it feels like HIV is running your life right now, that’s normal—and this feeling will fade with time. Regaining control will happen gradually, but you'll come to understand that HIV is not your whole life—just one part of it among many.
You don’t have to tell everyone you’re positive right away. Who and when you tell is a personal choice, made according to the sensitivity of each relationship. If you feel safe, you don’t need to change how you act. Sharing can be difficult, but it can also be a relief: a trusted person can become a source of support and help as you navigate this.
Reactions from your circle may range widely. Many loved ones may hold outdated or incorrect beliefs—some still see AIDS as a death sentence, others misunderstand how HIV is transmitted. Even seemingly open-minded people may have limited, media-based knowledge or even prejudice. That’s where you step in. As you learn more about HIV, you’ll learn to live with it more skillfully, and—if you choose—to educate others.
If you've chosen to share with close circles, ensure the conversation remains open: learn together, discuss concerns, and speak the difficult truths. Sharing is healing—for you and your community. You can also connect with others living with HIV who understand your journey. Through the psychosocial support services of the AIDS Task Force, we offer safe spaces, reliable medical information, professional counseling, and community connection.
Our app offers a wealth of practical information to give you perspective and clarity in the chaos. It may not be an encyclopedia, but it provides structured, concise guidance: from treatment options and tests to nutrition and prevention of rights violations.
Where the text addresses “you” in masculine form, the content applies across all genders and identities.
The doors of the AIDS Task Force are open to anyone who needs support and wants to take responsibility for reclaiming their life. We’d be honored to stay in touch via email or social media and invite you to our upcoming events and gatherings for people living with HIV in Israel.