About Us
Joomla! Administrator
Concerned about HIV?
Maybe you have come to look for answers because you are worried that you might need an HIV test, or you have already taken one and you are still waiting for the result. It’s natural to be worried about any medical condition. We are, after all, human. We also understand that there is another level of worry compounded with testing positive for HIV. It’s caused by misinformation, stigma and our own personal beliefs about what it might mean to be HIV+. This is a very common feeling and we want you to know there is support for you, so take a deep breath… and let us help you.
Give us a call and ask any questions, like why you think you might test positive or more information about HIV itself. We won’t ask you who you are or your status. You can also email questions to a member of our staff or even drop in. For information or support, reach out to our HIV+ Support Coordinator.
If you are looking for more in-depth information on risk or how HIV passes from one person to another, check out the information on this site about safer sex, drug use, tattooing, piercing and testing. These are all located in our "Information & Resources" banner at the top of every page.
We have talked with hundreds of people in this very situation, who are worried that if they did test positive that it would be the end of their world. It might feel that way right now, but believe us, it isn’t. Everyone is scared, and dealing with health fears and stigma you may be afraid of encountering makes it even harder. We can tell you that even if you did test positive, it does get better. We have seen it happen time and time again. People living with HIV today have access to new treatments, support networks, and are able to manage this chronic condition over time.
If you are still uneasy about contacting us, can’t immediately reach us, or you don’t feel comfortable sharing your situation with a friend or family member, you can call the Mobile Mental Health Crisis Team at 902.429.8167 or 1.888.429.8167 (toll free). They offer non-judgemental crisis support and are available 24/7. You can reach a nurse and ask health questions by dialling 811.
Just remember, you are not alone.
Become a Member
Hundreds of organizations and individuals support our work as members of the Health Equity Alliance of Nova Scotia (HEAL NS). Membership is free, perpetual over 3 year intervals (no need to renew each year) and open to any individual supporting our mission.
Why become a member?
- Be a part of an organization creating change in the lives of people living with HIV and helping to educate and reduce risks associated with HIV, HCV and other STIs
- Nominate members, or stand for election to the HEAL NS Board of Directors
- Vote in the election of our Board of Directors, attend Annual General Meetings and any Special Meetings of the Society
- Apply for scholarships to attend meetings and information sessions, whenever available
Download the HEAL NS membership form. A Google Docs online membership form is also available.
Mission
Our Mission: We strive to create an environment of inclusion and understanding in Nova Scotia through addressing the Social Determinants of Health for those living with and affected by HIV, and for members of 2SLGBTQIA+ communities.
Our aim is to improve health outcomes, end stigma and discrimination for our community members, and to end new HIV infections in Nova Scotia.
Our By-Laws: Download ACNS's By-Laws.
Publications & Reports
+Positive Dispatch
Four times a year, HEAL NS publishes +Positive Dispatch, our quarterly newsletter. +Positive Dispatch provides information of interest to our members and other communities. The newsletter includes HEAL NS news, events, informative articles and contact information for general program inquiries. Read about the latest developments in HIV/AIDS, as well as the latest happenings at HEAL NS.
Annual Reports
Our Annual Report reports on HEAL NS’ activities throughout the preceding fiscal year. Annual reports are intended to give our members and other interested people information about the company's activities, accomplishments and performance.
Other Downloads
Here's a collection of other downloads that can be found throughout our site, but are also listed here.