HIV & Mental Health
Are you feeling confused, scared, angry, sad, stressed?
Maybe you’re in denial, or want revenge?
Surely you’re thinking “why me?”
Feeling this way after an HIV diagnosis is normal. In conversations with our Community Advisory Committee, we learned that acceptance looks different for every woman. The journey to acceptance was different for everyone, but did not happen right away for anyone. Finding acceptance, self-love, and a way to live positively with HIV takes time, and there is no set timeline.
BWV hopes to support you as you navigate your HIV journey, wherever you are in the process. Self-care looks different for everyone. For some, it might mean attending medical appointments and taking your medication. For others, it’s connecting with Black health communities online, practising breathing exercises, trying yoga. For all, it should mean simply giving yourself time and grace.
Free Crisis Phone Lines
9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call or text 9-8-8 for toll-free, confidential support if you are thinking about suicide or worried about someone else.
Talk Suicide Canada: Call 1-833-456-4566 or text 45645 (4:00 PM to midnight ET)
211 Ontario: Dial 2-1-1 to connect with community, social, and mental health support services across the province.
Assaulted Women’s Helpline: Call 1-866-863-0511 (or text #7233 on mobile networks)
AIDS & Sexual Health Info Line:
1-800-686-7544
Monday – Friday: 10am – 10:30pm
Saturday & Sunday: 11am – 3pm
French available Monday - Friday, 10am – 5pm
Gerstein Crisis Centre: 416-929-5200
What does self care look like to you?
Why should we care about HIV and Mental Health?
Mental health is our ability to function in daily life, build fulfilling relationships, adapt to change, and cope with challenges throughout our lives.
Living with HIV can bring a range of emotions and challenges, alongside the everyday pressures of life. You deserve support that understands your experiences as a Black woman.
Warning Signs & Common Symptoms
Self Check-In
Our Self Check-In is designed to help you recognize when you may need emotional support and where to turn for help. Listed are some common warning signs for mental health experiences. You don't need to experience all of these signs to warrant support.
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Feeling sad, hopeless, or tearful more often
Feeling anxious, worried, overwhelmed, or on edge
Feeling irritable, numb, or emotionally exhausted
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Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Persistent self-criticism, shame, or guilt
Feeling overwhelmed by the future or your circumstances
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Trouble falling or staying asleep, or sleeping much more than usual
Feeling tired or drained much of the time
Changes in appetite or interest in everyday activities
Gaining or losing significant weight in a short tme
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Withdrawing from friends, family, or community
Feeling alone, misunderstood, or unsupported
Finding it harder to ask for help or trust others
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Feeling overwhelmed by appointments or treatment routines
Worrying about stigma, disclosure, or how others may treat you
Feeling frustrated, discouraged, or fatigued by the ongoing demands of care
If these experiences persist, feel overwhelming, or interfere with daily life, consider the resources below, or talk to a trusted provider, counsellor or person in your life.
Mental Health Resources
Things BWV especially likes:
Identify your triggers for anxiety and depression and consider where you go, who you talk to, what you do when triggered
Practice prayer, meditation, spiritual fellowship, if relevant to you
Have a “me” place. Where do you go when you don’t feel your best?
Brain dump in a journal or your phone Notes app before bed or during the day
Walking, dancing or stretching daily
Where to go, Who to talk to, What to do when you’re in need of support.
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Yes, we remain actively involved until solutions are fully operational and staff
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Featured Stories
What I Eat As a Person Living with HIV
Doreen Moraa Moracha talks about the importance of nutrition and eating while showing meals she’s made for herself.