HIV/AIDS presents many challenges to communities, families and individuals. Some people may feel hopeless and think that knowing their status cannot help them or their communities. They may assume that more people are infected than is actually the case. Many people are only aware of those in their community who are ill with AIDS and are not aware of those who are HIV infected and living healthy and productive lives. Often AIDS education and awareness programs appear to focus on the physical suffering, diseases, and symptoms associated with the end stage of AIDS.
