HIV/AIDS is the most stigmatized health condition globally, yet few studies have explored the needs of rural Ugandans diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. Uganda is one of the countries most affected by the AIDS pandemic and has an adult HIV prevalence of over 6.2% (UNAIDS, 2021). This transcendental phenomenological study revealed the lived experiences of women and men diagnosed with HIV in rural Uganda, and examined mental health counseling concerns. In-depth semi-structured interviews provided the data for this study. Three major themes emerged: (a) existential threat post–HIV/AIDS diagnosis, (b) resources relative to HIV/AIDS diagnosis, and (c) support from families and friends post–HIV diagnosis. The results of this study confirm a need for greater attention to and increased mental health support for people living with HIV/AIDS in rural Uganda, which may inform training strategies and support services in counselor education programs.