Stress, appraisal and coping in HIV-infected African-American men and women

With the development and utilization of the new multidrug therapies, many persons with HIV have experienced dramatic improvements in their physical condition, health self-appraisal, and psychological well-being. This treatment process has demonstrated the interrelationship of physical stress, perceived health status, and successful coping with HIV illness. The objective of this analysis is to assess the importance of perceived health for the level of mental distress in African-American men and women who have HIV disease. Interviews were completed with 255 HIV-infected black adults (age > or = 18) who were clients of AIDS care and referral centers in Tennessee. The results suggest that persons with a positive health appraisal are more effectively coping with the stresses of HIV illness. These observations have clinical implications for the care of African-Americans and others with HIV/AIDS.