Do You Have a Friend or Loved One Living with HIV?

Short answer: The best way to support someone living with HIV is to listen without judgment, learn the facts, and respect their privacy. Today, HIV is a manageable health condition — people on consistent treatment live long, healthy lives like anyone else.

1. Listen without judgment

Give them space to talk at their own pace — don't rush or interrogate, and respect the boundaries they're comfortable with. Being truly heard helps them feel they're still the same person you value, and that your relationship hasn't changed.

2. Learn the facts about HIV

Misunderstanding is the root of stigma. Learn from reliable sources such as our HIV basics knowledge base so you can support them accurately. Key things to know:

1. HIV is not transmitted through hugging, holding hands, sharing items, or everyday contact.
2. A person whose virus is suppressed to undetectable levels cannot pass HIV sexually — the principle of U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable).
3. HIV is a treatable condition, not a death sentence.

3. Encourage medical care

Starting antiretroviral therapy (ART) early is key. Offer encouragement and, if helpful, assist in finding an HIV and sexual health clinic they're comfortable with. Consistent treatment lowers the viral load to undetectable — good for their health and for preventing transmission.

Is it time for an HIV test? * Prices and free services vary by provider. Please check the details before booking. View testing services → 02

4. Support medication adherence

Help build a steady routine — a phone reminder, or pairing the dose with a daily activity. Taking medication consistently is essential for it to work. You can also help with other aspects of their health along the way.

When someone discloses their status to you

1. Thank them for trusting you with something so personal.
2. Ask what they need, and how private they want to keep it.
3. Reassure them that your relationship is unchanged and that you will not stigmatize them.
4. Never disclose their status to others without permission — that choice belongs to them alone.

If you're their partner

1. Get tested so you know your own status.
2. If you're negative and at risk, ask about PrEP for prevention.
3. If you're positive, start treatment as soon as possible.

Take care of yourself too

Being a source of support takes energy as well. Find someone to talk to or seek guidance for yourself, so you can stand beside the person you care about for the long run.

Find private HIV testing near you * Prices and free services vary by provider. Please check the details before booking. Find a provider → 03

Frequently asked questions

Can I get HIV from living with someone who has it?

No. HIV is not transmitted through hugging, holding hands, sharing meals, sharing a bathroom, or everyday contact.

What does U=U mean?

U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable) means a person on treatment whose virus is undetectable in their blood cannot pass HIV sexually. Read more in our U=U article.

Should I tell others about my friend's status?

No. Disclosing HIV status is the individual's right alone. Always keep it confidential unless they give you permission.

Everyone deserves equal, stigma-free care. If you or someone you love wants to talk or book a free HIV test and get PrEP, our team is here for you — without judgment.

References

1. HIV.gov — Supporting Someone Living with HIV (external site)
2. World Health Organization (WHO) — HIV and AIDS (external site)