PSYCHOLOGICAL FEATURES OF REHABILITATION OF HIV-INFECTED PATIENTS

Area of Science:

• Medical Psychology
• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection presents significant global health challenges.
• HIV has profound and variable impacts on patient mortality and well-being.
• Social adaptation remains a critical issue for individuals living with HIV.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the crucial role of psychological assistance in the social adaptation of HIV-infected patients.
• To investigate the impact of psychological support on patient outcomes and integration.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 30 inpatient medical records, categorizing patients based on psychological support receipt.
• Utilized clinical and anamnestic methods, alongside standardized scales: MADRS for depression, Spielberger-Khanin for anxiety, and Morisky-Goin for adherence.
• Compared outcomes between patients who received psychological help and those who did not.

Main Results:

• Patients receiving prompt psychological assistance showed milder psychoemotional disorders and better social adjustment.
• A significant majority (66.7%) of patients received psychological help, reporting better outcomes compared to those who refused it (33.3%).
• Psychological support was linked to reduced depression and anxiety levels and improved treatment adherence.

Conclusions:

• Psychological assistance is essential for HIV-infected individuals at all stages of their treatment and diagnosis.
• Addressing low public awareness of HIV transmission is key to improving patient societal integration.
• Early psychological intervention and ongoing support, including peer groups, accelerate social adaptation and enhance medical treatment effectiveness.