Feeling anxious

A HIV+ person may experience feelings of anxiety from time to time, either due to their condition and treatment, or due to other parts of their life.  No matter the cause, rehabilitation can help, and no formal diagnosis of anxiety is required, though the rehabilitation professional or complementary therapist might recommend seeing someone who can make a diagnosis if they feel it is necessary.

  • A physiotherapist or occupational therapist can recommend an exercise plan to reduce stress and anxiety1.
  • A physiotherapist can teach you relaxation techniques and breathing exercises to promote relaxation2.
  • An occupational therapist can
    • teach you relaxation techniques and breathing exercises3
    • teach you techniques to change negative thoughts

Other Rehabilitation Therapies

  • A social worker can teach you techniques to change negative thoughts.

Complementary Therapies

  • Massage therapy can reduce tension, which can positively affect anxiety.

1Walker J, Shepherd W: Anxiety Disorders. Physiotherapy, 2001, 87(10):536-548.
2Gill S, Kolt GS, Keating J: Examining the multi-process theory: an investigation of the effects of two relaxation techniques on state anxiety. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies 2004, 8(4):288-296.
3CNOT - Canadian Network of Occupational Therapists. Relaxation Therapy/Techniques & Anxiety Management. Accessed from http://www.caot.ca/default.asp?pageid=1327 February 2015.