HIV, Stigma and Me: One Woman's Story

The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) attacks the body's immune system by destroying cells which fight disease and infection. If left untreated, it can lead to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) (1). African American women represent 13% of the total female population in the United States and account for 61% of new HIV diagnoses (2). There are various types of stigma associated with HIV (3). Enacted stigma refers to an individual's experiences of prejudice and discrimination because of their HIV status, whereas, internalized stigma refers to an individual's acceptance of negative attitudes of beliefs related to their HIV status (4 ). A positive status, can affect individuals on a daily basis as it relates to stigma. For example, guilt, shame, isolation, or perhaps low self-esteem. HIV does not discriminate. Individuals across all races, ethnicities, and socio-economic status have been diagnosed as HIV positive.