Whether you’re newly diagnosed or a long-term survivor, disclosing your HIV status can be a daunting task. In most cases, it’s a personal choice, so when you’re trying to decide whom to tell, it’s important to trust your instincts. POZ recently asked about your disclosure practices. Here are your responses.

How soon after your HIV diagnosis did you disclose your status to someone?

60% Same day

20% Within one week

8% Within one month

6% Within one year

4% After one year

2% I have yet to disclose my status

To whom did you first disclose your status?

41% Friend

29% Spouse/Partner

15% Parent

6% Sibling

4% Other relative

5% Other

Have you disclosed your HIV status to your family?

67% Yes       33% No

Have you disclosed your HIV status to your friends?

75% Yes       25% No

Have you disclosed your HIV status to your coworkers?

34% Yes     66% No

Have you disclosed your HIV status to your employers?

33% Yes     67% No

Have you ever experienced a negative reaction to your disclosure?

66% Yes       34% No

Has disclosing your status gotten easier the more you’ve done it?

55% Yes       45% No

Have you ever had sex with someone without disclosing your status?

55% Yes       45% No

Do you believe keeping your HIV status a secret negatively affects your health?

52% Yes       48% No