Mental Health Impact of HIV/AIDS
Abstract
This session will discuss the mental health impact of HIV/AIDS. The session begins with a brief history of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, and how this history shaped current challenges ranging from stigma to fear of disclosure. The presentation then discusses the neuropsychological and somatic impact of HIV/AIDS, concluding with a discussion of the direct mental health impact (e.g., depression, adherence).
Proposal Summary
An understanding of the true impact of HIV/AIDS on the provider community and beyond requires a full understanding of the history of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, and how that history impacts nearly every aspect of AIDS ranging from stigma to receipt of care. This presentation is designed to guide individuals who may not be as familiar with HIV/AIDS through the complex mental health and neurological impacts that PLHA face in their daily lives. The presentation begins with a history of the AIDS epidemic, covering everything from the initial cases all the way through the recent ending of the US travel ban. The presentation then discusses the neuropsychological aspects of HIV/AIDS, as well as the more somatic conditions associated with an AIDS diagnosis, including a summary of common side effects of HIV medications. The presentation concludes with a discussion of the psychosocial impact of HIV/AIDS, including an interactive self-reflection exercise designed to bring forward the nearly inherent stigma associated with HIV/AIDS diagnoses. Issues of discrimination, adherence, and non-disclosure are discussed, as well as the impact these can have on outcomes and wellbeing of PLHA.
Relevance And Significance
This presentation follows part of the APA's HOPE curriculum, providing attendees with evidence-based information regarding both the epidemiology of HIV/AIDS and the impact of HIV on mental health.
Session Format
Presentation Session
Keywords
HIV/AIDS, Mental health, Neurological, Side effects, Stigma, History
Location
Room 211
Publication Type and Release Option
Presentation (Open Access)
Recommended Citation
Warren, Jacob, "Mental Health Impact of HIV/AIDS" (2014). 9th Annual Rural HIV Research and Training Conference (2014-2019). 13.
https://digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu/ruralhiv/2014/2014/13
Mental Health Impact of HIV/AIDS
Room 211
This session will discuss the mental health impact of HIV/AIDS. The session begins with a brief history of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, and how this history shaped current challenges ranging from stigma to fear of disclosure. The presentation then discusses the neuropsychological and somatic impact of HIV/AIDS, concluding with a discussion of the direct mental health impact (e.g., depression, adherence).
