World AIDS Day remains an important and emotional day for many people in the LGBTQ+ community. HIV shaped generations of queer lives, relationships, friendships, and communities, and while huge medical progress has been made, stigma, misinformation, fear, and silence around HIV still exist today.
For many LGBTQ+ people, particularly gay and bisexual men, the legacy of the HIV and AIDS crisis continues to affect mental health, identity, grief, relationships, shame, and community experiences in ways that are not always openly spoken about.
One of the most important messages people still need to hear is that people living with HIV who have an undetectable viral load cannot pass HIV on sexually. Undetectable equals untransmittable, often known as U equals U. Increasing awareness and challenging HIV stigma remains a vital part of supporting both physical and mental wellbeing within LGBTQ+ communities.
In this video, I reflect on World AIDS Day, remembrance, community, HIV stigma, and the importance of continuing to speak openly and compassionately about HIV and U equals U. If this is something that resonates with you personally or emotionally, I’d really encourage you to watch the video.
If any of this resonates with you and you’d like support exploring it further, I offer LGBTQ+ affirming therapy both online and in person from my practice in Manchester city centre. You’re welcome to get in touch to arrange a free 15 minute introductory call.
