n the face of deep-seated stigma and discrimination, young people living with HIV in Goa, are finding hope and resilience through the Human Touch Foundation. Shobha Shukla explores their personal journeys and examines the collective efforts that are transforming their lives and challenging societal norms
Living with HIV often comes with a heavy burden of internal and external stigma. For many young people, this fear of discrimination can be paralyzing, affecting their ability to live normal lives. HIV-related misconceptions remain a significant barrier for those living with the virus, impacting their mental health, relationships, and opportunities in life. However, through the dedicated support of the Human Touch Foundation, these youths are not only overcoming their fears but also becoming advocates for change in their communities.
The Weight of Stigma
A young person living with HIV shared, “As a young person living with HIV, I had self-stigmatised myself due to the fear of discrimination… fear of discrimination if I dare disclose my HIV positive status to others… this fear had stopped me from living life like a normal person.” This sentiment, echoed by many, underscores the profound impact of internal stigma.