Rising HIV Cases Highlight the Need for Self-Care

The rapid increase in new HIV cases, both globally and here in our own backyard, is alarming. For many within the LGBT+ community, this reality feels frightening and overwhelming. According to UNAIDS, 1.3 million people contracted HIV worldwide in 2024, and we’ve yet to meet our 2025 targets. These numbers don’t just represent statistics, they’re our childhood friends, our companions, our partners, and maybe even you or someone you cherish.

Fortunately, we have more prevention tools at our disposal than ever before. As highlighted by HIV.gov, consistent use of preventive measures, such as condoms, PrEP, PEP, regular testing, and treatment-as-prevention, can significantly reduce new infections when accessible and adhered to (HIV.gov). So, why do the numbers remain high? A major part of the issue lies in the stress, stigma, and burnout that hinder people from taking proper care of themselves.

When HIV Rates Climb, Self-Care Becomes Essential

Recent data from the CDC revealed tens of thousands of new HIV diagnoses in 2023 in the United States, with men who have sex with men and communities of color most affected (CDC). Globally, HIV is increasingly concentrated in marginalized populations (WHO). For many queer Filipinos, this means navigating discrimination, financial pressures, family expectations, and mental health challenges alongside HIV risk.

Research clearly shows that approaches centered around individuals’ needs and preferences make HIV prevention more effective and sustainable (NIH). Another study emphasizes that “self-care” in the context of HIV goes beyond medication; it involves a shared responsibility between the individual and the healthcare system, and developing programs that align with real-world scenarios, not just ideal ones (ESMED).

Doc Raf’s Guide to Self-Care in an HIV-Affected World

So, what does self-care look like amid the rise in HIV cases?

First, treat information as care: regularly test to know your status and explore your options, PrEP, PEP, condoms, and the U=U principle, so that your choices stem from confidence, not fear. Next, practice emotional hygiene: recognize when anxiety, shame, or internalized stigma push you toward denial or risky behaviors. Lastly, focus on relational care: surround yourself with partners, friends, and communities where open conversations about HIV, testing, and boundaries are judgment-free.

Finally, embrace shared care: reach out to local clinics, HIV organizations, and mental health professionals who understand LGBT+ experiences. Global strategies emphasize the importance of community-led services and rights-based approaches to curb the epidemic (UNAIDS prevention roadmap). Remember, you are not alone, self-care is powerful, but self-care within a community? It’s stronger, more sustainable, and life-affirming.