No woman should face an HIV diagnosis alone. So, whatever your reservations, make sure you connect with a community of HIV-positive people. It's a key step towards solving both the emotional and practical problems of living with HIV.

Knowing when you need help is vital. An HIV/AIDS organization can be a lifeline. Many HIV/AIDS organizations have case managers who can help you move forward on many of your health care issues.

You'll find most, if not all, of the following at HIV/AIDS organizations:

• HIV support groups
• Mental health and substance abuse counseling
• Case managers who can connect you to government aid you may need, such as Medicaid, disability insurance or medication assistance
• Expert information on HIV and nutrition, fitness and other issues
• HIV treatment information and adherence workshops to help with taking HIV medications
• HIV prevention counseling, safe sex workshops and free condoms

Most big cities have several HIV/AIDS organizations geared to meet the needs of different populations. For help in finding a local organization, go online to www.thebody.com/hotlines.html or call the CDC Healthline at 1-800-232-4636.

For additional information on finding support and information available for someone diagnosed with HIV, visit: www.thebody.com/justdiagnosed

As we've mentioned, HIV/AIDS organizations can provide a lot of help. There are even a growing number throughout the United States that specifically cater to the needs of HIV-positive women and offer a range of services.

Call the 24-hour CDC healthline at 1-800-232-4636 for referrals to organizations near you. No matter where you live, you can also call one of the organizations below to connect to other HIV-positive women and find services.

Women Alive (Los Angeles, CA)
The country's largest organization helping HIV-positive women. Their hotline is open 10 am – 6 pm (Pacific time) Monday – Friday
1-800-554-4876

WORLD (Oakland, CA)
One of the oldest organizations devoted to HIV-positive women. Great newsletter and yearly retreats.
1-510-986-0340

Chicago Women's AIDS Project
They have a wide array of services for HIV-positive women in Chicago.
1-773-271-2242

Women's Institute (New York, NY)
Services for women at GMHC, the largest HIV organization in NYC.
1-212-367-1365

Women at Risk (Culver City, CA)
They specialize in helping women in the Los Angeles area, but can offer resources to women throughout the U.S.
1-310-204-1046

Babes Network (Seattle, WA)
One of the oldest organizations helping HIV-positive women. Their hotline is open 10 am – 6 pm (Pacific time)
1-888-292-1912

Women and aids Network (New Jersey)
Their Warmline is open 9 am– 5 pm (Eastern time) Monday – Friday
1-800-747-1108

HIV Wisdom for older women
Help for HIV-infected older women.
1-816-421-5263

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