Exploring the Link between Mental Health and Treatment Adherence in People Living with HIV: A Structured...

Area of Science:

• Medical research
• Psychiatry
• Infectious diseases

Background:

• People living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV) frequently experience mental health challenges like depression and anxiety.
• These psychological issues can negatively impact adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART).
• Understanding the mental health status of PLHIV is crucial for improving treatment outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of mental health conditions among PLHIV.
• To identify factors associated with poor compliance (PC) with antiretroviral therapy.
• To explore the relationship between mental health status and ART adherence in PLHIV.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 150 PLHIV at a university hospital.
• Participants completed questionnaires assessing depression (PHQ-9), anxiety (BAI-PC), suicidality, and meaning in life.
• Poor compliance (PC) was defined by missed routine clinical visits; demographic and clinical data were analyzed.

Main Results:

• High prevalence of depression (27.3%) and anxiety disorders (34.7%) was observed; 21.3% had both.
• Depression was strongly associated with poor compliance (aOR=13.98), while anxiety disorders showed an inverse association.
• Suicide attempts, younger age, and low CD4 counts were also correlated with poor adherence.

Conclusions:

• Depression and anxiety disorders are highly prevalent in PLHIV.
• Depression and low CD4 counts are significant predictors of poor antiretroviral therapy compliance.
• Screening for depression is recommended to improve ART adherence among PLHIV.