First step to recover from HIV paranoia?

[HopefullyCleandude]

I just got my 6 week 4th gen non-reactive result today. Which I consider a very good indication that I am not infected, I will surely test again at 3 months. However, Im afraid the severe anxiety must have dealt tremendous damage to my body:

1. Weightloss
2. Malabsorption
3. Nail-Fungus
4. Digestion issues
Etc..

My question is, where do I go from here? What would you advise a person who suffered a severe HIV paranoia/anxiety/depression...to do next?

Thanks

[RubyWitch]

Your 4th generation DUO test at 6 weeks is NOT just a good "indication" of your status. It IS CONSLUSIVE of your NEGATIVE status. Your 12 week status will be the same, as will the 16th week status. You are negative and it's time to stop...........

You asked "Where do I go from here?" From here, you move on with the rest of life.

You asked "What should a person who suffered a severe HIV paranoia/anxiety/depression...to do next?"

My advise would be to relax and take care of yourself, both mentally and physically. Eat a very healthy diet, exercise, get plenty of rest and fluids. Don't know what to tell you about the nail fungus, but you obviously need to decompress from this ordeal.

Try this regime for a week or two and if you are STILL having all these physical/psychological symptoms, you definitely need to see your doctor. If it is a physical problem, I'm sure he can fix it. If it's a psychological issue, you may be referred for therapy to deal with the anxiety.

The final thing I would strongly advise you do is to educate yourself about HIV and safe sex.
Knowledge is power.    
  

[HopefullyCleandude]

You are such a good person Ruby! I really really appreciate all the response and time you have given me. I will try to relax starting right now and will definitely visit multiple doctors to supplement my recovery.

I agree that everyone should be educated about the risks involved in sexual activities. I couldn't believe thaf I went through college and still make the mistakes I have done. I'll be sure to pass on all the knowledge I have gotten from 6-weeks-non-stop googling. God bless and thank you Ruby.

[diver58]

4th generation Duo test is conclusive at 6 weeks. You do not need any further test, move on with your life, you do not have HIV.

[RubyWitch]

Thank you for the kind words and know that all of us appreciate when our efforts are recognized.

If you have been through college, I can guarantee that ANY of the classes you took were MORE difficult than learning about basic HIV prevention and safe sex.

The internet is a place where we can learn amazing and wonderful things, but it can also be incredibly destructive to our peace of mind............and you found that out the hard way.

Whatever knowledge you have gained from this experience and whatever you may learn while educating yourself about HIV, I hope you will share it with others. It feels good to "pay it forward."

Take care of yourself and I'm sure that soon you will be feeling much less stress and anxiety. But if not, please do not hesitate to see a doctor.

Wishing you peace
RubyWitch