HIV has always been wrapped up in misinformation and stigma. And as we know from Covid-19 pandemic life, all of this can most likely be linked to fear. So what do people get wrong about this virus?
Stigmas against people living with HIV began in the 1980s, when the virus initially led to the HIV and AIDS epidemic in the United States. Especially gay and bisexual men were affected by the discrimination and while certain groups of people have a greater chance of contracting HIV, the virus can be transmitted to anyone, regardless of their gender, ethnicity, or sexuality. But still, in most institutes for blood donations gay men are not allowed to become a donor, in fear of transmitting the HI Virus. While there is progression, new guidelines that are based on an individual donor assessment for all blood donors regardless of gender or sexual orientation, so men who have sex with men and who have had the same partner for 3 months or more and meet other eligibility criteria are able to give blood, there are remaining stigma and presumptions.
HIV positive people need to deal with people that are afraid to touch them, many assume HIV can be transmitted by physical contact, which is not correct. Most of the time humans catch the infection through sexual intercourse without protection like condoms, but HIV can also be transmitted outside of sexual contact, such as through sharing needles or drug equipment, or from mother to baby. Social stigma, like this, against people living with HIV can lead to gossip, rejection, bullying, and in some cases, even violence. Harmful HIV myths can also make intimacy a difficult subject for people living with HIV.
So Stigmas can come in many different forms. People living with HIV can be subjected to stigmas that are not only experienced but also internalized or even anticipated. HIV stigmas and discrimination can also be self-imposed, individual, structural, or institutional. HIV stigmas can negatively affect the physical health, healthcare behaviors, and interpersonal relationships of people living with HIV and can impact many aspects of life. Individual and institutional stigmas can also have a huge negative impact on the mental health of people living with HIV. Stigmas can impact many aspects of mental health including: self-esteem, depression and anxiety levels, avoidance and blame coping behaviors.
All of us have a responsibility to dispel the harmful myths surrounding HIV and advocate for people who may be impacted by them. Stand up against discrimination, Educate yourself and others, Get involved with HIV organizations.
Lead others with your supportive behavior.