In response to your question; How open/okay am I with opening up about my status? (relationship too), let me answer this way. If you don't ask me, I won't tell you. Reason. 1) Just as I had to learn that coming doesn't mean I had to tell a single soul I was gay. As long as I was out to myself, I was good. What I'm saying I am now comfortable about telling my status, why? 2) I've finally accepted it for myself. 3) The same thing applies too persons that I'm in a relationship with. Once it becomes clear that we are going to be an item, I disclose to my partner. In a nutshell, what I'm saying is until you are OK with you, you can't or won't be comfortable with anyone else. In closing, the reason why I don't tell everyone my status, because I know my inner circle, some of them are cool, then there are those who fall apart watching Bugs Bunny cry on tv. Catch my drift? LOL. Seriously, I'm comfortable with disclosing, because I'm 100% comfortable with me. Hope that helps.

Also learn the disclosure laws in your area. Every state and county have different laws.

I work in an HIV-based organisation as the lead where many expect me to disclose but I make it clear, I only disclose when my story will save a life and I disclose when I am in a new serious relationship. One needs to be ready and do it for the right reasons.