World HIV/ AIDS Awareness Day brings together organizations and individuals to help end HIV and remember those lost to AIDS-related illnesses.
The theme for 2022 is “Putting Ourselves to the Test: Achieving Equity to Treat HIV.” This treatment includes mental health care.
What is AIDS?
AIDS is the late stage of HIV infection that occurs when the body’s immune system is badly damaged because of the virus. In the U.S., most people with HIV do not develop AIDS because taking HIV medicine as prescribed stops the progression of the disease.
What is HIV?
HIV, or human immunodeficiency virus, is the virus that causes AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). HIV can be transmitted during sexual intercourse, by sharing syringes, or during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding.
The stress associated with living with a serious illness or condition, such as HIV, can affect a person’s mental health. People with HIV have a higher chance of developing mood, anxiety, and cognitive disorders. For example, depression is one of the most common mental health conditions faced by people with HIV.
HIV and related infections can also affect the brain and the rest of the nervous system. This may change how a person thinks and behaves. Also, some medications used to treat HIV may have side effects that affect a person’s mental health.
Situations that can contribute to mental health problems for anyone:
- Having trouble getting mental health services
- Experiencing a loss of social support, resulting in isolation
- Experiencing a loss of employment or worries about being able to perform at work
- Dealing with loss, including the loss of relationships or the death of loved ones
In addition, people with HIV include may also experience situations that negatively impact their mental health, such as:
- Having to tell others about an HIV diagnosis
- Managing HIV medicines and medical treatment
- Facing stigma and discrimination associated with HIV/AIDS
Understanding how living with HIV can affect mental health and knowing what resources are available can make it easier for people to manage their overall health and well-being.
