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Real members of myHIVteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A myHIVteam Member asked a question 💭
New York, NY
July 27
 · 
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A myHIVteam Member

@A myHIVteam Member Thats an issue no doubt. There are some very toxic people in this world. But if you move around a bit. You will also find very toxic people with HIV. There are people out here who are disclosing their HIV status 6 and 12 months into sexual relationships. If at all. And then wonder why they are being made famous. U=U is hard for hookups. It's not hard for relationships. We always have to use discretion. I wouldn't be disclosing to someone that hasn't kept secrets in the past. That's something that takes time to figure out. So you have to move slower and develop trust first. All the men I've disclosed to showed real empathy.

July 29 (edited)
A myHIVteam Member

Yeah but it comes with a stigma a worry that the person who rejected you will tell someone else you might know. Especially if you’re selective on who you tell. It’s not easy being known in your town as the person with HIV.

July 27
myHIVteam

Rejection after disclosing your HIV status can sting deeply, and it's completely valid to feel hurt. It's important to remember that someone else's fear or lack of understanding says more about them than it does about you.

Here are some ways to cope and move forward:

- Lean on your support network — friends, loved ones Show Full Answer

Rejection after disclosing your HIV status can sting deeply, and it's completely valid to feel hurt. It's important to remember that someone else's fear or lack of understanding says more about them than it does about you.

Here are some ways to cope and move forward:

- Lean on your support network — friends, loved ones, or a therapist who understand your journey
- Remind yourself of your worth — your HIV status is one part of you, not your whole identity
- Educate when you feel safe to — sometimes rejection comes from misinformation, and a calm conversation can shift perspectives
- Give yourself time — it's okay to feel disappointed before picking yourself back up

Many people living with HIV have found that disclosure, while scary, ultimately leads to more honest and meaningful connections. A myHIVteam member shared that telling a potential partner about their status actually made them feel more confident and empowered about moving forward in life.

Not everyone will react with fear. There are compassionate, informed people out there who will appreciate your honesty and see you fully. Surrounding yourself with supportive, respectful people — both in your dating life and beyond — makes a real difference.

July 27
A myHIVteam Member

I don't look at it as a special rejection. It's no different than being rejected for being short old or gray haired.

July 27

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