Particular events such as receiving an HIV diagnosis, bereavement, the break down of a relationship, financial worries or work problems, or dealing with side-effects of treatment can result in feelings of deep unhappiness and emotional distress which are difficult to manage and interfere with your ability to get on with daily life.

Support from family and friends can be very helpful at these times, as can professional help, such as helplines and counselling. Many HIV clinics have specialist mental health teams and some HIV support agencies can offer short courses of counselling. Some people also find that complementary therapies, such as acupuncture, can relieve some of the symptoms of emotional distress, although these are now rarely provided by HIV clinics.