What are the potential pitfalls for people living with HIV in attempting to transition to work?
Issues related to a non-static health status, psychosocial pressures to work and not work, unresolved challenges related to mental health and substance use need to be considered alongside the questions of vocational exploration and training. Fear, anxiety, and depression are common obstacles in this process. Issues of bad credit, debt and back taxes may be resolved in a less burdensome manner prior to employment than afterwards. Careful consideration needs to be made to the impact of work on health, as well as on various health and financial benefits. It can be quite challenging to maintain efforts at medical monitoring, adherence, exercise, and nutrition while working or training for work, and individuals may need assistance in assessing their capacities for such activities, and the best pace at which to do so.
