Responses to Receiving A Positive Test Result ·
Talking to other people who have tested positive suggests that the immediate period after getting the result can be a time of intense psychological distress for many.
This can manifest in different ways for different people and may present as denial, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, anger, depression and suicidal thoughts.
It may help to know that the acute distress usually decreases in two to ten weeks following the result, and that sharing the way you feel with someone you trust can help.
This is a time for remembering that there can be lots of support available to you and also the importance of finding the right kind of support.
You might want to let your health care professional know how you feel. If sharing your feelings face to face is too difficult, you might find a telephone helpline better suits you.
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