Hi! Im 34 yrs old and its been 3 months now since I was diagnosed. Had a series of councelling and orientation of HIV/AIDS treatment 3 days ago. Upon learning about the side effects of the available arv here in asia and the OIs, fear and delimma of experiencing those side effects went all the way to my mind that cause a lot of stress and depression. What will I do to get rid of fear and possible discrimination when people come to know about my illness.im basically on a stage 1 as far as clinical status of HIV is concern and its really hard to get back to life at this point and time if I will be in the process of taking ARV soon. Im on the "gray zone" as per my doctor and because of the side effects Im now confuse and disturbed. Im not taking any medication yet but soon I will, pls help me.

Although your fears are understandable, there is no need for anyone to know about your HIV status unless you want them to know. It's true that the ARV medications have some side effects but they are quite effective and the benefits far outweigh the adverse effects. You have every reason to be hopeful.