Season 2 of our Positive Voices podcast is coming to a close, and it’s been an enlightening ride with hosts Tei Pearson and Malachi Stewart as they encourage those with HIV to seek treatment, care, and community. By providing a platform for others to speak about their experiences, the audience has learned a lot along the way. One of these things is how to talk about HIV with family and friends. Whether you have HIV or have a partner, friend, or family member with it, here are some tips on how to communicate with others.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, there are five ways to approach the topic with someone when you announce a diagnosis or discuss prevention. Read on for more information.
- Consider Your Timing: Never start a serious discussion in the heat of the moment. Wait until all parties feel it’s a good time to talk. It’s hard to get your point across when one of you is in a bad mood or rushed.
- Take Breaks: Assume that this is not a one-time conversation. It may take more than one time to get your ideas across or for them to hear you fully, and that’s okay.
- Be direct: Don’t skirt around the topic. Say what you need to say simply.
- Find a safe time and space: Difficult topics can get heated. Find a place where you feel secure, whether at home or on a walk.
- Use “I” statements: “I” statements ensure you are fully heard. Use this format if it helps: “I feel _____ (emotion) when/about ______(event) happens. Can you _______(action/request)?”
16 episodes of Positive Voices’ second season are streaming now. Take a listen and let us know what you think.
Need testing? Visit the DC Health and Wellness Center.
Christina Montoya Fiedler
Christina Montoya Fiedler is a news writer based in Los Angeles, CA. She’s a mom, wife, blogger, former publicist, lima bean hater, and coffee drinker extraordinaire — but not necessarily in that order. You can follow her on Twitter @cmf2009.
