Work-related or school-related issues

Because HIV is a condition with ups and downs, you might face uncertainty about how you will feel and what tasks you will be able to do on any given day.  This uncertainty can make it hard to hold down a typical job (paid or volunteer) or go to classes.  When you are in a down phase, you may feel too tired and weak to do work- and school-related activities.

  • An occupational therapist can help1 with:
    • Finding solutions to challenges related to returning to or staying in work.
    • Developing a daily routine that includes work tasks.
    • Suggesting adjustments of work tasks.
    • Learning to communicate with your employer.
  • A physiotherapist can help with:
    • Developing an exercise routine to increase your fitness and strength so the down periods have less of an impact on your ability to do work and school activities.

Other Rehabilitation Therapies

  • A  vocational counsellor can help2 with:
    • Figuring out what challenges you might face in the workplace.
    • Creating a list of goals for returning to or staying at work.
    • Creating an action plan to overcome challenges.
    • Improving communication between you and your employer.
    • Building job search and retention skills.

1Institute for Work and Health. Working Together: Successful Strategies for Return to Work. Accessed Feb 3, 2015 from http://www.iwh.on.ca/working-together
2Vocational Rehabilitation Association. The Process of VR. Accessed Feb 3, 2015 from http://www.vra-uk.org/node/6