Dealing with a diagnosis

Where do you start? What do you need to do if you have hepatitis B?

Finding out you have hepatitis B can feel overwhelming. You might be scared, confused, or unsure about what this means for your health and your future. That’s completely normal. But here’s something important you can remember: you are not alone, and hepatitis B is manageable.

In this page we can give you ideas to help you prepare your next steps.

Looking after your mental wellbeing

Living with chronic hepatitis B can affect more than just your liver. It can also affect how you feel emotionally and mentally. You might feel worried, stressed, or even ashamed about your diagnosis. These feelings are normal—and you're not alone.

Some people with hepatitis B may experience:

  • Anxiety or worry – about their health, treatment, or future

  • Sadness or depression – especially if they feel isolated or misunderstood

  • Shame or stigma – due to misunderstandings about how hepatitis B is spread

  • Stress – from managing regular doctor visits or talking to others about their condition

Here are some simple ways to care for your mental health:

  • Talk to someone you trust. Sharing your feelings with a friend, family member, or support group can help you feel less alone.

  • Speak to your doctor. They can check if you're feeling low or anxious and may refer you to a counsellor or mental health service.

  • Join a support group. Connecting with others who have hepatitis B can give you strength, advice, and a sense of community.

  • Stay active. Gentle exercise like walking, gardening, or dancing can help improve your mood.

  • Practice self-care. Make time for things that help you relax—like music, prayer, art, or spending time in nature.

  • Avoid alcohol and drugs. These can harm your liver and make mental health worse.

Finding care

  • Find a doctor: If you haven’t already, try to see a doctor who understands hepatitis B. You can start with your GP, or if you would like to find a doctor that can prescribe for hepatitis B, you can find more information on this page.

  • Ask questions: It is a good idea to prepare questions for your doctor. Here are some things you might want to ask:

    • Is my liver healthy?

    • Will I need medication?

    • How often should I come back for check-ups?

    • What can I do to help my liver stay healthy?

  • Always ask your doctor if you need to take medicines or supplements for anything else:

    • Some medicines or supplements can harm your liver

    • Some medicines or supplements may need their dose tailored especially for you

Take care of yourself

A healthy lifestyle can help you take care of your liver. Here are some things you can do:

  • Avoid alcohol and smoking

  • Eat well with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins

  • Get regular exercise