From ajmc.com…
HIV stigma comes in many forms. HIV.gov defines stigma as any “irrational or negative attitudes, behaviors, and judgements toward people living with or at risk of HIV.”3 This can include people refusing contact with someone living with HIV, refusing care to those who have HIV, or socially isolating someone who is living with HIV. Those who are at a higher risk of HIV may be affected by stigma due to their gender identity, sexual orientation, drug use, race/ethnicity, or sex work. On top of this, internalized stigma is prevalent in people living with HIV, as they may have negative feelings or thoughts based on their status. About 80% of people receiving care for HIV reported feeling internalized stigma.3 Depression, anxiety, isolation, and feelings of shame are all results of this.
