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Association between Internalized Stigma and Depression among People Living with HIV in Thailand
Darawan Thapinta1, Kriengkrai Srithanaviboonchai2,3, Penpaktr Uthis4
1Faculty of Nursing, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand.
Insights
Internalized stigma and depression are common in people living with HIV (PLHIV). This study found a significant association between depression severity and internalized stigma, particularly impacting social relationships.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Mental Health
- HIV/AIDS Research
Background:
- Internalized stigma and depression are significant challenges for people living with HIV (PLHIV).
- Understanding the relationship between these conditions is crucial for effective care.
- Previous research highlights the prevalence of mental health issues in PLHIV.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between depression and internalized stigma in PLHIV.
- To explore specific aspects of internalized stigma related to depression.
- To inform healthcare providers about the co-occurrence of these conditions.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 400 PLHIV in Thailand.
- Data analysis included descriptive statistics, Mann-Whitney U test, and Spearman correlation.
- Assessment of depression using PHQ-9 scores and internalized stigma scales.
Main Results:
- PLHIV with mild depression showed lower social relationship stigma scores compared to those with major depressive disorder (p = 0.009).
- Total HIV internalized stigma scores significantly correlated with depression scores in the mild depression group (r = 0.327, p = 0.004).
- A notable association was found between depression and internalized stigma, especially concerning social relationships.
Conclusions:
- Depression and internalized stigma are prevalent and interconnected in PLHIV.
- Healthcare professionals should screen for depression in PLHIV experiencing internalized stigma.
- Interventions promoting understanding and social support are necessary for PLHIV.
Abstract:
Internalized stigma and depression are among the most common mental health problems in people living with HIV (PLHIV). This study aimed to examine the association between depression and overall internalized stigma, as well as different aspects of internalized stigma in PLHIV. The study included 400 PLHIV receiving care in Bangkok and Chiang Mai, Thailand. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Mann-Whitney U test, and Spearman correlation coefficients. The results indicated the PLHIV with mild depression had lower median scores for the social relationship internalized stigma subscale than PLHIV with major depressive disorder (p = 0.009). Total HIV internalized stigma scores were significantly correlated with PHQ-9 scores in the mild depression group (r = 0.327, p = 0.004). Depression and internalized stigma were prevalent and associated, especially in the area of social relationships. Health personnel should be aware of possible depression in PLHIV who have internalized stigma. Intervention to promote understanding and social support for PLHIV is warranted.
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