05: A Call for Help

HIV is a word loaded with frightening implications and, unfortunately, stigma.  Often, questions about HIV aren’t spoken and fears of risk are held closely inside people’s own hearts.  Finding an outlet for those questions and concerns is critical for thousands of Minnesotans who are trying to learn about HIV, support friends or family, or face the disease themselves.  For nearly 25 years, the Minnesota AIDS Project AIDSLine has provided a caring, accurate source for information around this continually evolving disease. 

Started as a small call center in a private apartment, the AIDSLine served as an early clearinghouse of emerging information on the disease reported as afflicting gay men on the coasts of the United States.  Quickly, the implications of what HIV would mean to Minnesotans began to emerge.  Cases appeared here in the Twin Cities and little information was available as everyone struggled to learn what caused this disease and how it was transmitted.  Over the last 25 years, through science, society has collectively learned a great deal more about methods of transmission and what is required to provide some effective medication options to help those living with HIV.  However, the need for timely, accurate information remains as strong as ever. 

Today, the AIDSLine has grown into a critical service providing HIV prevention information, risk assessment, and advocacy resources to over 3,000 people annually.  “Often times, callers reach out at a time of crisis,” said Minnesota AIDS Project community educator Becca Robinson, “and we’re able to offer assistance in addressing important issues and offer some broader perspective on the disease for them.”  The AIDSLine is a single entry point where people can find the right resources they need including access to medical care, housing, testing, and information.

One caller, Jeff, called shortly after receiving an HIV diagnosis.  He had been referred to the AIDSLine by his diagnosing physician who thought the AIDSLine could offer important counseling and help Jeff as he adjusted to a difficult diagnosis.  The AIDSLine staff was able to help him navigate the murky waters of insurance and medical care, offered essential information about living with HIV, and provided counsel on different ways to discuss his diagnosis with family and friends. 

The AIDSLine continues to evolve in order to meet the needs of our community, with more online information, multiple contact methods, and interpreter services for non-English speaking callers. 

Trained AIDSLine staff work daily to monitor key news and trends related to HIV in order to provide timely counsel to any question.  Callers may often be uncomfortable or unsure talking about their personal risk factors or feel foolish asking a question.  However, those are exactly the calls and questions that need to be asked in order to reduce the spread of HIV.  One caller, Cheryl was recently divorced and entering the dating scene again. She called the AIDSLine to get more information on safer sex practices and how to talk with partners about using condoms and getting tested.

The team also continually updates an extensive statewide resource guide of HIV related organizations and programs throughout Minnesota and holds strong relationships with other providers to help callers identify the best option for them.  The AIDSLine continues to evolve in order to meet the needs of our community, with more online information, multiple contact methods, and interpreter services for non-English speaking callers. 

Despite the technology changes and ever-changing knowledge about HIV, one thing hasn’t changed at the AIDSLine and that’s the ability to offer Minnesotans an understanding and caring person who is interested in helping them resolve any concerns about HIV.  “I love the teachable moment,” says Patrice Koelsch, who has worked on the AIDSLine for seven years.  Discussing questions about HIV can be challenging.  By its nature, an honest discussion about the risks of HIV touches some of the most personal emotions and actions we have whether it is fear, sex, addiction, or depression.  When callers are able to connect with a person who wants to help rather than judge, it can make all the difference in the world.  Asking for help in understanding an issue can be difficult, but if you, your family, your friends have questions or concerns about HIV, it is essential that there are places like the AIDSLine for answers.

Last Updated: Friday, February 29, 2008
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Content Notice: This site contains HIV prevention messages that may not be appropriate for all audiences. Since HIV infection is spread primarily though sexual practices or by sharing needles, prevention messages and programs may address these topics. If you are not seeking such information or materials, please exit this Web site.